One worrying aspect of this transfer window for Newcastle is the large number of players that are being linked with an exit. Not just any old players either, big name players. Kevin Nolan has already left, Joey Barton and Jose Enrique could well go the same way, and now a number of clubs are said to be interested in Jonas Gutierrez. It’s all well and good bringing new players in, but if you let the majority of your better players go, then you just go back to square one. This is why I think Newcastle should send a hands-off warning to any club looking to sign Gutierrez.
Since signing for Newcastle back in 2008, Gutierrez has been something of a mixed bag. He’s racked up more than 100 appearances for the club, yet you get the feeling that many fans still aren’t overly convinced by him. Like many wingers, at times Gutierrez can be very frustrating and his final ball often leaves a lot to be desired. However, he’s a player with international experience and had a solid season back in the Premier League last season, with one of the highlights being a stunning solo goal against Wolves at St James’ Park.
Given that Gutierrez has 20 caps for Argentina under his belt and, if reports are to be believed, is available for around £5 million it is no surprise that many clubs are interested in him. Atletico Madrid and Sevilla are thought to be leading the chase, and there is perhaps one factor that could have a major influence on Gutierrez’s future at the club; whether or not Jose Enrique leaves. Gutierrez has formed an excellent partnership with Enrique down the left hand side, but if Enrique did head for the exit door, it’s very possible that Jonas could do, too.
However, irrespective of whether Enrique leaves or not, I think the club should fight to keep Gutierrez at the club. The winger still has two years left on his five-year contract, and at 27 still has plenty to offer. So, why not offer to extend his contract back to the five-year period, which would keep him at Newcastle until he is 32. During that period, Gutierrez would have the opportunity to terrorise plenty more Premier League defenders, and really establish himself on Tyneside, if he hasn’t done so already.
Rightfully so, Newcastle are looking to strengthen their squad in all areas, and by bringing in Sylvain Marveaux, Jonas Gutierrez now has direct competition for his place in the side. That is what you want as a top professional, and hopefully will only spur him on to fight for his place in the starting eleven and put in some really stirring performances. Gutierrez is the type of footballer you want at the club, someone who will give his all and entertain the crowd, and to let him go now in my opinion would be a crying shame.
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