OPINION
The Newcastle United of 2019 is a much different beast to the Newcastle United of just a few short months ago.
Since the arrival of Miguel Almiron in January, and since the sudden upturn in form of Ayoze Perez, this is a side capable of doing real damage to an opponent, and one that looks as if it could do really decent things next season, if Rafa Benitez stays, and if he can keep his squad together.
Neither one of those variables is assured just yet, however, and the latest worrying whispers around St. James’ Park have been that Napoli are readying a move for Perez this summer, as reported by the Northern Echo.
Whether this is true or not remains to be seen, but it would be hard for the Spaniard to turn down Champions League football should the Serie A side come knocking.
Because of that, the Magpies need a contingency plan.
And according to the Express, they might already have one in place.
Dan James is being touted as a potential target, and the Swansea City winger would be a superb signing.
The 21-year-old has been in fine form this season, hitting 11 goals, and has caught the eye with his blistering pace and unashamedly direct approach.
Those kind of attributes would cause havoc at St. James’ Park, and if the Toon Army can snap him up, it would surely prove to be a very prudent move.
James’ profile is only going to keep on rising, and buying him now could be a fantastic piece of business.
