OPINION
Despite a recent upturn in form, there’s no arguing that goalscoring has been and will continue to be one of Newcastle United’s biggest problems moving forward.
Salomon Rondon has a decent Premier League record, but none of Ayoze Perez, Yoshinori Muto or Joselu have shown they can be prolific scorers at this level.
A January move for the Championship’s top goalscorer Neal Maupay could be the answer to Rafael Benitez’s prayers.
The 22-year-old is unproven at top flight level, it’s true, but he has shown with his time at Brentford that he is an exceptional talent who is ready to make the step up to the Premier League.
He fits in with what Benitez is looking for in January, too. The Chronicle reported last month that a number ten and a centre forward were among the positions the Spaniard was looking to strengthen come the winter transfer window.
While primarily a striker, Maupay has the ability to operate as a number ten or even as a winger, too. His versatility would be a huge bonus for the Magpies, meaning that he could play alongside Rondon as well as simply instead of him.
The Frenchman’s prolific form means it’s unlikely he will remain at Griffin Park for long. The youngster has 12 goals and six assists in the Championship this term, averaging a goal every 104 minutes.
He makes an impact in front of goal but he can also create opportunities for others, something that has been lacking at St James’ Park this campaign.
The form of Newcastle’s current frontmen pales in comparison to Maupay’s. He is electric at the moment and it’s imperative that Benitez makes a move for him in January.
