NEWCASTLE United are set to trim their first team squad, with fringe defender Javier Manquillo closing in on a Rafa Benitez reunion with a move to Celta Vigo.

Manquillo has suffered a string of injury setbacks this season but is fit again now. He doesn't feature in Eddie Howe's plans and has only twice made the bench in all competitions so far this season.

The 28-year-old's contract is due to expire this summer but his Newcastle exit now looks increasingly likely to come sooner, with the right-back in talks with Celta.

Benitez is keen to strengthen his squad this month to help in Celta's battle against relegation. They're currently just two points above the La Liga drop zone.

Although Howe's squad has been decimated by injury, Manquillo is fourth in the pecking order at right-back and the Magpies need to move on some fringe players if they want to strengthen their squad and comply with the Premier League’s profitability and sustainability regulations.

Howe last week confirmed that Newcastle will move Isaac Hayden out on another loan after cutting short his stay with Standard Liege. The Magpies are down to the bare bones in midfield but Hayden doesn't feature in Howe's plans. A string of Championship clubs have been linked.

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Meanwhile, Graeme Carrick said Newcastle's youngsters were "devastated" after their 5-0 defeat to Bournemouth in the FA Youth Cup fourth round on Wednesday.

The Cherries opened the scoring after just a minute at St James' Park and ran out comfortable winners.

Lead coach Carrick said: "We're really disappointed. These nights are vital for players in their development. Playing at the ground adds to the occasion and is part of what the lads need to deal with.

"It started as badly as it could with the goal. We responded OK but lost our way after the second goal.

"Overall it's really disappointing but hopefully a valuable experience. The players are devastated. It's a massive game for them. This is a special competition."