Newcastle United have completed their first piece of January transfer business with a deadline day loan deal for Monaco left-back Antonio Barreca, on a six-month contract.
The former Italy youth international arrives at St James’ Park from Ligue 1 on a temporary basis, with a view to a permanent deal in the summer if his stint meets expectations.
The 23-year-old only joined Monaco last summer but the French outfit has suffered a tumultuous 2018-19 campaign that has seen them both hire and fire Thierry Henry as head coach.
Speaking to the club’s NUTV channel following his arrival, Barreca expressed his excitement at linking up with the Magpies, admitting the lure of the club’s legacy and the Premier League was too good to pass up.