Newcastle United did not have the greatest of campaigns in the Premier League, after being promoted to the top flight last summer. Rafa Benitez did a pretty good job to take an inconsistent squad to a place in the top half of the points table. However, he will have to improve his squad this summer, if they are to compete with the best next season.
The Spaniard is looking for upgrades in certain areas of the squad and adding a striker seems to be his priority. He might be eyeing a number of goal scorers recently but one name they could be missing out on is Alassane Plea.
Born and brought up in Lille, the 25-year old started his senior career with Lyon but has only emerged as a star in his time with Nice. He joined the club in 2014 and has been a regular in the first team ever since. He scored over 10 league goals in the last two seasons, showing consistency that has attracted a number of clubs from around Europe.
He played for the French U21 side in 2014 but has failed to break into the senior squad but the likes of Fulham and Tottenham Hotspur are ready to give him an opportunity at the highest level. But reports now suggest that Manuel Pellegrini’s West Ham are desperate for his services and have made a £27m bid to try and land him this summer.
It is understood that the French outfit are happy to let him leave for €30m (£26.6m), giving West Ham a lead in the chase. However, terms are yet to be agreed between the club and the player, giving the Magpies one last window of opportunity. So should they open their door?
Having scored 21 goals in all competitions last season, Plea has certainly taken his game to the next level. He is strong, athletic and perfect for the English game, while his energy on the field and his ability to create chances for his side make him all the more dangerous.
He can test keepers from long range, can also play on the wing providing pinpoint crosses, even under pressure. He is technically ready for the biggest stage and will be a superb addition for the squad at St James’ Park.
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Rafa currently has Joselu, who struggled last season and Dwight Gayle, who can be handy. However, he needs a genuine goal scorer, a target man his midfield can feed off and Plea is a decent option. At his price, he is a real asset for a club like Newcastle and at just 25, is also a long-term option. So Newcastle United should certainly give signing Plea another shot.
