Stuttgart defender Borna Sosa has reportedly emerged as a potential transfer target for Newcastle United.
The 24-year-old is currently competing in his fifth campaign at the Bundesliga outfit, making a total of 96 appearances in all competitions.
During his time at the Mercedes-Benz Arena, the Croatia international has produced some of the best assist statistics in Europe, setting up a remarkable 31 goals.
Sosa is equally capable of playing at left-back and left wing-back, his form leading to a start for his country against Morocco at the World Cup on Wednesday.
Although the Checkered Ones were held to a goalless draw, Sosa played the full 90 minutes to help his nation to a clean sheet.
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As it stands, there is every indication that Sosa will remain at Stuttgart for the remainder of 2022-23 given that he possesses a contract until 2025.
Nevertheless, according to Bild, Newcastle have identified Sosa as a possible signing ahead of the turn of the year.
That is despite the Magpies being well stocked for options in that area of the pitch with Dan Burn and Matt Targett currently competing for a first-team role.
However, given Sosa's ability going forward, Eddie Howe may consider the player to be another option further up the pitch.
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Sporting director Sven Mislintat has previously spoken about the future of Sosa, admitting that he is eager to retain his services for the foreseeable future.
Talking to Bild, Mislintat said: "The World Cup is a brutal showcase, but my clear wish is that Borna stays. He is an absolute quality player. It would be difficult enough to replace him during the summer.
"A transfer during the winter would not be good. It would weaken us. It is very important that we keep the quality in the squad. Then we will be strong enough to stay up in the league."
Stuttgart are currently enduring a dismal campaign in the Bundesliga, the club being required to win three of their last six fixtures to move into 16th position in the standings.
Sosa has had a direct hand in five of Stuttgart's 18 goals in Germany's top flight this season.
