Andros Townsend’s rumoured move to Newcastle United has been dragged the longest this transfer window. With Crystal Palace unwilling to sell one of their key players while they are fighting a relegation battle, the Magpies have seen their offers getting rejected repeatedly and they might have finally found a way to get the deal done.
According to Sky sources, Newcastle and Crystal Palace are discussing a potential swap deal for Andros Townsend and Chancel Mbemba on loan. The fact that Palace are in dire need of defenders is no secret. The Eagles have already brought in Jefferey Schlupp from Leicester City, Patrick van Aanholt from Sunderland and have taken Chris Samba on trial this winter. They would love to get another one.
Mbemba has not played for Newcastle since October. A centre-half by nature, he can also play as a full-back. At 22, his inexperience could be a deciding factor in Premier League and Allardyce would more definitely use him as a backup, but he will get a chance to show his potential at the biggest platform nonetheless.
Newcastle United have their own problems on the wings. The lack of quality backup on the flanks saw them being ousted from the FA Cup lately and the hectic Championship schedule would definitely need them to add more depth to their squad.
Townsend left Newcastle United last summer for £13m as the Magpies got relegated. But, now with the team back on track for a promotion next season, Benitez wants him back on his side. Townsend hasn’t found form at Selhurst Park so far managing to score just once and provide two assists in 20 appearances.
A loan move with an option to buy at the end, as proposed by Newcastle United, could be near perfect for the player with his current situation at Selhurst Park. In Alan Pardew’s stint as the manager, Townsend hardly saw any first team action. And when he voiced his willingness to play on the right flank, it further damaged his chances.
Under new manager Sam Allardyce, although the English winger has seen some playing time on the right wing, he hasn’t been a regular for the side. And now with Wilfred Zaha returning from AFCON, his chances have just become slimmer. Newcastle doesn’t have players to replace either Yoan Gouffran or Matt Ritchie when needed and Benitez is desperate to get in more option in the wide areas.
