SAINT PETERSBURG, Russia – Big transfer moves tend to bring questions, so we've tried to provide some answers in a look at what's in store for US right back DeAndre Yedlin now that he's officially completed his transfer to Newcastle United.
How he fits
The biggest question surrounding a transfer is often about playing time, and US men's national team fans will be pleased that Yedlin has a more winnable fight for it at St. James' Park. With Dutch international Daryl Janmaat off to Watford, the American's key competition is against a fellow summer buy. Veteran Jesús Gámez has arrived recently on a free transfer from Atlético Madrid, where his games played total had dipped a great deal over the last two seasons.
At his cost (reportedly over $6 million), Yedlin was not brought to Newcastle to sit. The Magpies tend to like wingbacks that daringly push play up their flank, and manager Rafa Benitez is betting that the speedster can grow his attacking skills while still maintaining the improvements made in defense during his Sunderland loan last season.
Yedlin should enjoy working the right side with another newbie, Matt Ritchie, who spent the last two seasons inspiring Bournemouth with his play. The Scotland winger works combos to raid from the wing and loves to cut inside, which would widen the outside lane for an attack-minded right back like Yedlin.
His new teammates
The Seattle native has joined a club loaded with young talents and a solid midfield. What's more, Newcastle had a very strong summer at the market for a club that just suffered relegation from the Premier League.
Yedlin is one for four new faces expected by the staff to contribute heavily to their promotion push. Ritchie came over this summer, along with Senegal midfield engine Mohamed Diamé and Jamaica forward Dwight Gayle, who's already scored four times in as many games for the Magpies.
Their outlook
The young American will get his chance to shine and continue his development with this move. And because of their squad, a lot of observers are banking on Newcastle earning a trip back to the top flight. They are certainly built to do it. A lot can happen during the long Championship season, but the Toon Army look like a good bet to challenge for the elevator places as the term begins.
