OPINION
Newcastle United must boost their attacking options by hijacking Bournemouth and Crystal Palace’s reported interest in Brentford attacker Ollie Watkins.
The Daily Mirror’s Live Transfer Blog (Monday, 2:53) claimed that Roy Hodgson’s side had joined the Cherries in the hunt to sign the £8million-rated Championship winger.
With both of the Magpies’ PL rivals looking to Watkins in order to boost their side’s attacking threat, Rafa Benitez must beat them to it and improve his squad’s chances in front of goal by recruiting the 22-year-old.
Watkins, who can feature on either flank as well as be unleashed as a centre-forward, is more than ready to take the Premier League by storm if given an opportunity.
The pacey winger shone in his 2017/18 campaign for Brentford in the Championship as he scored 10 goals, while creating five, during his 45 league appearances in order to help the London side finished ninth in the league.
Watkins clearly has a bright future in football due to his dazzling drill skills, blistering pace and ability to be a threat from set-pieces.
The 22-year-old has also demonstrated his pinpoint crossing ability in his recent campaigns and after previously tearing it up in England’s second-tier, he looks ready to be tested and excel against harder opposition.
Benitez is clearly in need of boosting his side’s attacking options ahead of next season as his side only managed 39 goals in 38 league games and Watkins would provide a boost to the Magpies for many seasons to come if recruited.
The versatile attacker’s £8million valuation should see the Magpies easily able to afford his services and the promising talent would no doubt jump at the chance to play for such a prestigious club.
Therefore with the Mirror’s report stating that the speed demon is set to make the step up to the Premier League the Magpies should ensure he makes it with them.
