After months of speculation, it now appears increasingly uncertain that the Saudi Arabian backed takeover will go through at Newcastle United. Another reason to suggest it may not happen is that scouts are reportedly planning for life without the Kingdom’s Public Investment Fund’s influence. One player who has been linked with a switch to the northeast is Real Madrid’s Luka Jovic, and a loan move away from the Santiago Bernabeu could be precisely what the Serb needs to get his career back on track.
Jovic may have won La Liga with Los Blancos this term, but he has been peripheral to Zinedine Zidane’s plans, making just four starts in the league. Furthermore, the striker has made an enormous 13 appearances from the bench, with both of his two league goals coming after appearing as a substitute. The 22-year-old was a massive contributor in Eintracht Frankfurt’s run to the Europa League semi-final last season and may need a move away to regain his confidence.
During the 2018/19 season, Jovic bagged ten Europa League goals, before the Eagles lost to eventual winners Chelsea on penalties. His exploits in Europe’s secondary competition were only narrowly outshone by Olivier Giroud, who scored 11 goals to collect the golden boot. Furthermore, the 22-year-old’s 17 Bundesliga goals put him behind only Pablo Alcacer and Robert Lewandowski as he was the third-highest scorer in the division.
Given how ruthless Jovic was in front of goal last term, it is surprising he has not been able to break into the Real Madrid starting eleven with greater frequency, featuring for just 422 minutes this term. However, if he were to make a switch to St James’ Park, Newcastle would be delighted to have a striker who’s previously boasted such an outstanding scoring record.
The Magpies’ most prolific striker this season has been Dwight Gayle, with three Premier League goals, all of which have come since the restart. Steve Bruce’s side are crying out for a finisher, with all four of the Toon’s centre forwards combining to finish just five chances this season.
If Newcastle can persuade Jovic and Real Madrid that the Serbian international may be able to revive his career on Tyneside, the move could be a success for both sides. The 22-year-old would plug a gap Newcastle are desperate to fill while getting amongst the goals to restore his confidence before returning to the Bernabeu.