Youssouf Mulumbu. Not a name that will strike fear into opponents but it appears that the West Brom midfielder is in demand, with both Newcastle United and Tottenham Hotspur taking an interest in the 25-year-old, or at least that’s what Mulumbu says. So why are Newcastle and Spurs both keen on the Congolese international?
The first thing is to look at what Youssouf Mulumbu has actually said. Mulumbu told Mercato 365 over the weekend that: “We have already started talking to teams like Newcastle and Tottenham.” This is from a player that two weeks ago on Twitter posted: “Chelsea, Liverpool or Newcastle next season” in regards to where he’ll be playing. A man touting himself to any clubs that may be interested perhaps?
He continued: “For now, I’m leaving it all in the hands of my agent and I hope to have good surprises on my return from vacation.” So we know a little about Mulumbu the person; that he’s ambitious and wants to further his career, even if he isn’t being very tactful in the way he’s gone about it, but what about Mulumbu the player?
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Mulumbu has been at West Bromwich Albion for three-and-a-half years. In that time he’s made over 100 league appearances for the Baggies and while he hasn’t exactly been pulling up trees, he has quietly impressed. He was named the club’s and fans’ Player of the Year for the 2010/11 season and has made the defensive midfielder position solely his own.
One advantage for either Newcastle or Tottenham, is that Mulumbu won’t be going to the African Cup of Nations next year, as back in 2009 he quit international football for DR Congo, citing a lack of professionalism in the team. The same could be said about him and how he’s pushing for a move away from a club who gave him a bumper new contract just 12 months ago.
I wouldn’t be surprised if there were a couple of Premier League clubs interested in acquiring the services of Youssouf Mulumbu, but he may well be more anxious to push through a move than they are. Would he be a good signing for Newcastle? Yes. Would he strengthen the squad? Yes. Is he a player who is going to get the St James’ Park faithful excited? I’m afraid not.
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I just say this is fluff. Looking to justify whatever salary he is angling for. Newcuntsal can have him if they so desire.
If he came in as a squad player that would be great
Mulumbu is a much better player than you are giving him credit for. Even more importantly is the improvement in his game. He may well have now peaked however the way he has developed is remarkable.
Another Baggies fan here: IMO this report is absolutely spot on! Mulumbu would be an excellent acquisition for any top 4-8 club, and yeah he doesn’t exactly get the heart racing, but hell yes, he is a defensive midfielder! So what ; )
He will be missed 🙁
You never know, he might still stay!