Newcastle United are having a torrid time this season in all competitions. The Magpies were knocked out of the FA Cup by Watford in the fourth round, putting an end to their hopes of getting a significant result in the prestigious domestic competition. In the Premier League, they are standing on the threshold of entering the relegation zone and a battle for survival at the end of the season seems to be just around the corner.
The Magpies, therefore, are looking to add players to their squad who could help them to at least stay in the top flight. According to Chronicle Live, Rafa Benitez’s side are interested in signing the Paris Saint Germain starlet Stanley N’Soki on loan. The left-back could be a valuable addition to Newcastle United’s lineup with the business end of the season coming up.
However, the Ligue 1 giants have reportedly rejected the bid by the Tyneside club for the 19-year-old. The report depicts that Thomas Tuchel’s side sees the youngster as a future asset and want to keep him for the rest of the season as a part of the first team squad.
The Magpies have lacked the composure from their players throughout this season, especially in the defensive department. While Paul Dummett has fallen victim to injuries, Javier Manquillo has never looked good as his backup. These problems have piled on the misery for Benitez, and he would have been happy to have a versatile player like N’Soki at his disposal.
The young Frenchman, who is predominantly a left-back, can also play up the field and as a centre back. His pace and guile down the left flank could have been a real help in the upcoming relegation battle. He could have also stepped up as a viable backup for Kenedy, who has failed to replicate his form from the last term, as a left winger or midfielder.
N’Soki has already made nine appearances for PSG in Ligue 1 this season. His style and trickery with the ball have received rave reviews from a number of experts from all over Europe and he could have been a good option for the Magpies to strengthen their squad.
Given their current run of form, it is essential for Benitez to make another move to land the young Frenchman on loan in January. It is true that the player has no prior experience of playing in the Premier League. But under the tutelage of the Spaniard, he could hone his skills and might turn out to be a clever addition for the Tyneside club.
It could be a gamble for Benitez to bring in a player like N’Soki. However, amidst the current financial conundrum, which has seen Newcastle failing to rope in any major names this season, signing the young defensive ace could be a risk worth taking for the former Champions League winning manager.
