It’s been a difficult season for Newcastle United, with the joys of returning to the Premier League often overshadowed by topsy-turvy discussions on a takeover and a lack of finances for Rafael Benitez to utilise.
As such, the Magpies find themselves in a difficult position, just three points above the relegation zone, and their inability to finance key deals is a major problem- but something has to give, as it’s time for Newcastle to go for broke.
From Mike Ashley’s perspective, the next six months are crucial in his plans to sell the Tyneside outfit as the value of the club would drop significantly if they were to be relegated back to the Championship- and it would almost certainly lead to Rafael Benitez walking.
As such, Ashley needs to make funds available and Newcastle fans can take comfort in the fact that this will help the Sports Direct magnate- so he’s certainly going to be all eyes, with it becoming clear he only looks out for himself.
Not only do Newcastle need to make key signings, they also need to make a statement of intent to the rest of the Premier League, particularly those around them hovering in the relegation zone, and hijacking this £15m move would be the perfect start.
The Daily Mirror states West Brom are hopeful of concluding a £15m deal to sign Scottish international Tom Cairney from Fulham this month, which follows Newcastle’s own interest during last summer’s window.
The Cottagers stood firm on that occasion, reportedly rejecting a £20m offer from Newcastle, and the fact he now seems to be available for £5m less will rub salt into the wounds of the Tyneside giants.
Newcastle, however, may hold a strong bargaining chip in the form of Dwight Gayle- who’s been named as Fulham’s ideal marquee signing this January and who could be allowed to leave Newcastle in January, if a deal was right.
Fans have long been calling for Aleksander Mitrovic to get another chance and the Serbian needs football ahead of the World Cup. Prior to this month’s window, a lot of sides were said to be interested in the 23-year-old but nothing has materialised as of yet.
A change in stance from Benitez could therefore be beneficial; hand Mitrovic opportunities again and use Gayle as a bargaining tool in talks to bring Cairney to St. James’ Park, where he’d provide a crucial boost to the attacking ranks.
Newcastle’s troubles in scoring have been well documented but they may well be solved with more creativity from midfield, which Cairney would certainly provide, and beating West Brom in the market would be an additional bonus.
