It appears Steve Bruce may have only been afforded a budget reportedly worth around £35m, plus any extra income from player sales, after the Saudi Arabian backed takeover fell through. Even so, he should not hesitate to tempt reported Newcastle United target Harry Wilson to Tyneside from Liverpool.
It has been suggested that the Red, who spent last season on loan with A.F.C Bournemouth, would cost £20m, a sizeable chunk of Bruce’s suggested budget for this summer transfer window. Although, for that outlay, the Magpies would be getting a midfielder who can not only occupy several roles but also add creatively and provide a goal threat of his own.
Last term Wilson was only outscored by namesake Cherries striker Callum Wilson, who bagged eight goals, one more than the on-loan Liverpool ace’s seven strikes. Only five midfielders in the Premier League scored more goals last season than Wilson, four of whom played for sides who finished in the top six of the division. Furthermore, he was the highest-scoring midfielder at a relegated team, epitomising his importance while on the south coast.
Newcastle have been desperate for goals, with Dwight Gayle finishing the season as the highest-scoring striker on four Premier League strikes, while only top scorer Jonjo Shelvey, six, found the net more than five times. During his time in the Championship with Derby County, Wilson was prolific, finding the back of the net on 14 occasions. Although his goals halved when he made the step up to the Premier League, there is still time for the 23-year-old to develop his attacking potency further.
The left-footed Wilson primarily started from the right channel under Eddie Howe last term, and he could slot in seamlessly to the Newcastle United starting eleven in the same role next season. Towards the end of the campaign Bruce preferred to use a 4-2-3-1 formation and an attacking midfield trio of Allan Saint-Maximin, Miguel Almiron and Wilson could prove to be potent.
Another exciting aspect Wilson would bring to the Magpies is his ability to score direct free kicks. Last term two of his seven strikes were from a dead ball, and his deliveries or shots from static scenarios would add an extra dimension to Newcastle’s attack.
While Wilson may cost the majority of Bruce’s budget this summer, the Reds’ Welsh midfielder is a player Newcastle must try their best to bring in. Wilson has proven this season he is capable of playing in the top-flight and still scored more than any Magpies player despite being relegated while out on loan.
