OPINION
Liverpool forward Divock Origi would be the perfect signing for Newcastle United to make in January but only if Premier League rivals Wolves are justified in holding out hope that the player’s price tag will be lowered.
The Magpies need a new forward as well as a new winger but with the club probably set to operate on a tight January budget then their options will be limited.
Given that Origi can play as a centre-forward as well as be deployed as a winger on either wing, he would see Rafa Benitez have a fresh option in two areas of his team where he desperately needs them.
Origi, who earns £28,000-a-week at Anfield (Spotrac), also has Premier League experience after playing 51 times in the division and wouldn’t need bringing up to speed on what is required of him.
This would mean that he would be able to hit the ground running at St James Park as soon as he arrives, which given the Magpies’ current form in front of goal may end up being a must.
Also given the fact he is 23-year-old he wouldn’t be a signing made with just the second half of the season in mind as he still has time to improve and continue to grow as a player, meaning the Magpies could rely on him for multiple seasons.
The only reason why the Magpies should steer well clear of Origi is the fact that according to the Liverpool Echo the Reds want a club to pay a fee above £20million for him.
This would be way too much to invest in the Belgian international and even Mike Ashley would be right to keep his wallet locked away in this scenario.
However given that the Express & Star reported that Wolves are keen on Origi and are holding out hope the Reds’ lower than demand for Origi given he has hardly featured this season, then the forward could still end up being the perfect signing for the Magpies.
Wolves’ reason for believing the Reds’ price tag could be lowered is understandable and if their reported hope is justified then the Magpies have to swoop in and secure Origi’s services ahead of them.
Therefore given the forward’s Premier League experience, age, versatility and no doubt eagerness to prove himself then he would be perfect for the Magpies, but only if Wolves’ hope for his price tag to be lowered ends up being founded.
