Eddie Howe has QUICKLY AGREES personal terms with Highly rated winger who stats Beats overrated Anthony Elanga and Jarrod Bowen combined with cheaper price tag which could prove to be a bargain deal
As the 2024/25 Premier League campaign approaches, Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe is working tirelessly to enhance his squad. His primary aim is to bolster the Magpies’ chances of once again securing a spot in the prestigious Champions League. Last season, Newcastle faced a spate of injuries that ultimately saw them miss out on European football. This was further compounded by Manchester United’s FA Cup victory over Manchester City at Wembley in late May, which sealed their fate.
The upcoming season offers Newcastle a golden opportunity to reclaim their former glory. With a less congested fixture schedule, the team can focus on maintaining peak performance levels, reducing the risk of recurring injuries that plagued them over the past year.
The lack of squad depth at Newcastle was glaringly apparent last season. The team often had to rely on young talents like Elliot Anderson and Lewis Miley to step up in the absence of injured first-team players. One critical area that requires reinforcement is the forward line, especially with Miguel Almiron potentially moving to Saudi Arabia. This potential departure would leave Newcastle even more short-handed in attacking positions.
Newcastle United has been scouring the market extensively to find a suitable attacker who can make an immediate impact. Despite their efforts, they have yet to secure any new signings. However, journalist Ben Jacobs has reported that the club still has several players on their radar, including West Ham United’s Jarrod Bowen and Anthony Elanga.
The Magpies previously tried to arrange a swap deal with Nottingham Forest for Elanga, who cost the Reds £15 million last summer. Unfortunately, Forest rejected the offer, but Newcastle remains keen on the former Manchester United player. In contrast, acquiring Bowen would be a significantly more expensive endeavor, with West Ham holding out for a fee in the region of £100 million for the 27-year-old forward.
Newcastle has also been linked with Italian winger Federico Chiesa, who impressed during the Euros a few years ago. Although Chiesa has struggled to regain his form following a serious knee injury, new Juventus manager Thiago Motta has made him available for transfer for around £21 million. Chiesa was previously linked with a move to Newcastle, and Howe may need to rekindle interest in the forward given his impressive stats in Serie A during the 2023/24 season.
When comparing Chiesa to Bowen and Elanga, it’s evident that the Juventus star would be a valuable addition to Newcastle’s squad, especially considering his bargain price tag. Despite contributing fewer combined goals and assists in the 2023/24 season, Chiesa excels in several key areas. He averages more shots per 90 minutes, completes more progressive carries and passes, and has a higher number of successful take-ons. These attributes demonstrate his ability to drive with the ball, create key passes, and outmaneuver opponents, which could elevate players like Alexander Isak to the next level.
Newcastle must operate shrewdly to avoid potential breaches of the Premier League’s Profitability and Sustainability (PSR) rules. Signing Chiesa would be a financially prudent move, offering a cheaper alternative to other targets while adding the necessary flair and quality to Howe’s forward line. This strategic approach could help Newcastle secure the talent needed to compete at the highest levels without compromising their financial stability.
In summary, as Eddie Howe gears up for the new Premier League season, Newcastle United’s focus remains on strengthening their squad to secure a return to the Champions League. With careful planning and strategic signings, the Magpies are poised to overcome last season’s challenges and aim for greater success on the domestic and European fronts.
