According to Daily Record, Newcastle United are set to rival Manchester United in the pursuit of Barcelona youngster Ansu Fati. The Barcelona Under-19 has impressed the onlookers with his remarkable performances in the youth leagues. As a result, he has been a subject of interest from a host of clubs across Europe.
Fati’s current contract at Barcelona expires at the end of this month. But, the Catalans are prepared to offer him an extension, although they want him to spend another year at the U-19s despite the player’s initial wish to join the Barcelona reserves next season. And this could pave the way for the likes of Newcastle and Man United to make a move for the player this summer.
Ansu Fati: player profile
Since being promoted to the Barcelona Under-19s last summer, Fati has been a real asset to the team, thanks to his consistent performances in the youth levels. The 16-year-old scored 15 goals in just 26 starts this past season.
Fati has also netted four goals and provided three assists in just nine games in the UEFA Youth League. His performances in the final third, helped his team reach the semi-final of the said competition, although they were ultimately unlucky to have lost against Chelsea on penalties.
As far as gameplay is concerned, Fati’s style of play can be compared with someone like Ousmane Dembele. A left-winger by trade, the youngster loves to take on defenders and has electric pace that makes him a genuine threat on the counter.
Fati also has quick feet and knows how to use the clever drop of the shoulders to beat his man. But unlike Dembele, the 16-year-old mostly stays out wide and whip in dangerous crosses into the box. Although, he can drift into a central role when necessary. His excellent control over the ball enables him to act as a ball-carrier across the final third.
Is Fati a good option for Newcastle?
Making a move for Fati might not be a bad decision from Newcastle as it will not rank below their ambition in the event of a potential takeover from Bin Zayed group. The 16-year-old is brimming with potential and can be groomed into a world class attacker.
That being said, he can’t possibly be a part of the Newcastle first-team right now. But, the Barcelona youngster will be a stunning addition to the reserves and in time, the senior side as well. However, it is unlikely Fati will want to move to Tyneside as his current priority is to prolong his stay at Barcelona this summer.
