Rafa Benitez reveals why Newcastle signed Yoshinori Muto after confirming Aleksandar Mitrovic's Fulham move
Rafa Benitez believes Yoshinori Muto will not have any problems adapting to Premier League football.
Newcastle United have signed the striker in a £9million deal, though the move from Mainz is subject to a work permit.
Benitez spoke about the Japan international's qualities after last night's 0-0 draw against Porto at the Estadio do Dragao.
“Muto's done, but it’s just waiting for the work permit," said United manager Benitez.
"He played in the World Cup in a good team. He has done well in the Bundesliga, so we're talking about a striker that's doing well in the last few years at international level.
“He has quality and can bring us energy and good movement plus the intensity you need. I don’t see any problem with him.”
News of striker Aleksandar Mitrovic's proposed £20million move to Fulham broke before the Porto game.
"I think he has an agreement with Fulham, and I wish him all the best," said Benitez. "Hopefully, he can score a lot of goals, but not against us.
“But it’s something we were expecting, and it’s now a case of looking to see if we can bring someone else to replace him.”
Mitrovic had spent the second half of last season on loan at Craven Cottage.