Newcastle United might have to look somewhere else as their ‘priority target‘, Joshua King, is very much in Eddie Howe’s plan for the next season. Toons have enjoyed a good 2018 as they have climbed in the top half of the table on the back of some great results.
Rafael Benitez’s side were struggling in the early part of the season, especially in front of goal, as they seemed to lack the cutting edge. However, after a slight tactical change from Benitez where he started partnering two men up front, the results have improved.
The partnership of Ayoze Perez and Dwight Gayle has done well but Benitez would have expected much more from the latter, who was their chief architect in clinching the Championship title last term. To add more competition, they were looking to sign someone like King who is adept at playing the role of a secondary striker.
His manager Eddie Howe has said,”Joshua is a huge part of our plans and a massive player for us. He won’t be going anywhere.” Those are some clear and strong words and it seems that the Cherries manager will not let the English forward leave.
With him being out of the equation, we look at 3 possible signings Newcastle can go after to add some attacking talent to the squad-
Jay Rodriguez
His team are on the verge of going down to the second division and many players can be on their way out of Hawthorns. Even in a dismal season like the present one, he has managed to score 11 goals for the Baggies and has been one of the few bright sparks for them. He is adept at playing behind the striker and with his team going down, he can be available at a cut-price deal.
Raul Jimenez
The Benfica man has experience of playing in the top division as he was part of Atletico Madrid’s squad. However, he found it tough to break into the La Liga team as they had the likes of Mario Mandzukic and Diego Costa. The Mexican is known for his pace and could provide the cutting edge to Benitez’s side.
Read More: Newcastle United Looking To Sign Highly Rated Southampton Defensive Star: Right Man For Benitez?
Xherdan Shaqiri
He can be devastating to the opposition if given a chance to score from a variety of ranges. His linkup play is good and can operate behind the striker. With Stoke City relegated, he will probably be available in the market and Benitez should certainly consider making a move for him to bolster his squad.
