According to The Sun, Newcastle United are in hot pursuit of Hoffenheim striker Joelinton. The Magpies are looking to add to their strength for the next season as they want to see manager Rafa Benitez extend his stay at St James Park, with the Spaniard’s contract set to expire at the end of this season.
The Tyneside club have struggled in front of the goal throughout this season. Though on-loan striker Salomon Rondon is getting the goals for his side to keep them in the hunt to stay afloat in the Premier League, it would be a great relief for him to see someone as efficient as Joelinton arrive next summer to share the goal scoring responsibilities.
The 22 year old Brazilian has been a revelation at the Bundesliga club this season and has scored 11 goals so far. He has been a brilliant team player as well and has notched up nine assists to show for his efforts. His stellar form has attracted the attention of a number of clubs from all over Europe, and Newcastle United have tough competition to deal with in their pursuit of landing the player in the next transfer window.
Benitez, since he has taken charge at the Tyneside club, has been the star of the show for the Magpies. Despite having limited resources at his disposal, he has used them tactfully to get the results in his favour and has been able to keep his side fighting in the top flight since their promotion from the Championship two seasons ago.
Given the brilliant tactician he is, it would be a massive loss for the Tyneside club if they can’t make him stay put at the club after this season. The manager has not been happy with the club authority and owner Mike Ashley, who has not been able to back him up with the players he has demanded.
However, that scenario seems to be changing with the club breaking their transfer record in the January transfer market to bring in Miguel Almiron from the MLS side Atalanta United. Their pursuit for Joelinton also seems to be a reflection of their intent not to let their influential gaffer leave the club at the end of this season.
The Brazilian striker could be the perfect partner for Rondon in the attack for the Magpies if they can land him. But more importantly, it would ensure that Newcastle United are right behind Benitez and are looking to provide him with everything in their power to make him sign on the dotted lines and extend his tenure at the club.
