According to the latest reports from Calciomercato, Newcastle United’s attacker Ayoze Perez is being eyed by Italian heavyweights Napoli. The report adds that Spanish outfit Real Betis are also interested in this Spanish player. Both the mentioned clubs had targeted him the last summer as well, but nothing materialised at that time. It remains to be seen what would transpire in the upcoming months of this year.
Ayoze Perez has been extremely crucial to United’s team this season as he has made 36 appearances in all competitions. That clearly signifies that Benitez trusts him to start regularly, and the Spaniard has repaid that trust by providing seven goals and four assists this season.
What is Perez so important for Benitez?
Perez is a versatile player who can play in various positions in the attacking third. Benitez has often used him on the right flank this season, but he usually takes up central positions to support Salomon Rondon in the attack. Also, the 25-year-old showcases an impressive work rate which makes him a perfect fit for someone like Benitez.
The Spanish star is composed in front of goal and can take his chances well. Given the conservative playing style of the Toon, it is imperative for them to make their chances count and Perez is often able to do that.
Can Newcastle keep hold of him?
The versatile attacker is contracted to stay at the St. James’ Park until 2021. So the Toon can demand a decent fee for him if Napoli or Real Betis make a concrete offer. Napoli are likely to secure the Champions League berth, and that could be enough to lure the former u-21 Spanish international.
The player could also be keen to move back to his home country to play in the La Liga. Therefore there is every chance that the player’s head can turn if these two clubs make an offer for him. Newcastle United don’t seem to be anywhere near challenging for the European spots. Perez might have this feeling that at this stage of his career, he can play for a top half club.
United need to show ambition in the upcoming summer transfer market. The first thing they need to do is to secure Rafael Benitez’s future. Then they need to back him in the transfer window so that he can build the team to take the Toon to the next level. If the club fails to do that, then they will not only lose their manager, but essential players like Perez could look to move away from the club.
