Newcastle United are on the verge of an immediate return to the top-flight of English football, courtesy of Rafael Benitez’s stupendous managerial tutelage and the fact that his men have delivered in a riveting manner for a major chunk of the season.
After 41 games in the Championship, the Geordies have piled 84 points and are 10 points clear of 3rd placed Huddersfield Town, although the latter have a game in their hand.
Newcastle United might be getting an automatic promotion spot but for maintaining their form in the Premier League, the former Real Madrid boss would need to bolster his squad in the summer.
The striking department needs to be put under the scrutiny as their attackers have missed plenty of opportunities, which have hurt their pursuit many times. A world class striker is an urgent need at St. James’ Park and there are no two perceptions with respect to this.
Dwight Gayle’s recurring hamstring injuries and Aleksandar Mitrovic’s woes and sporadic run of form has left a lot to be desired up front and one of the latest reports have stated that the Magpies have put Real Sociedad’s gunman, Willian Jose, on their radar.
The Brazilian is enjoying a stellar season in La Liga, as he has already banged 9 goals and registered 3 assists and the likes of Everton, Watford and Southampton are also aiming to bring him into their ranks.
Jose is a very talented poacher with predate instincts and he really thrives under pressure. His well-structured frame, ability to blast past defenders and holding up the game in the final third to allow the midfielders to penetrate inside the box is some of the strongest suits that he plies his trade with.
He had been touted as the next big thing in Spain for quite some time but this season, he has really blossomed and is finally living up to the expectations which were thrust on his shoulders.
The Toons have done an excellent job in the Championship but they need a shrewd out-and-out no.9 who could bang goals left right and centre and frankly speaking, Jose does fit the bill. To thrive in the Premier League would arguably be the toughest battle to win but apparently, he does look ready for it.
Should Benitez manage to pull off the deal in his side’s favour, he would be striking gold and would be laying his hands on one of the best strikers from La Liga.
Statistics Credits: WhoScored.com
