According to a recent print edition of L’Equipe (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness), Newcastle United will face fierce competition in pursuit of Olympique Marseille full-back Bouna Sarr this summer. The same source has also revealed that the Magpies will have to battle the likes of Southampton, Arsenal, Real Betis, Sevilla and Atlético Madrid in the race to secure the French defender’s signature during the summer transfer period (via Sport Witness).
Sarr’s Solid Form At Marseille Last Season
The 28-year-old has experienced another impressive season at Orange Vélodrome after producing a series of commanding displays on the right side of André Villas-Boas’ backline. He scored two goals and three assists in 32 matches for Marseille across all fronts which showcases his knack for getting involved in the final third.
Sarr has also averaged 2.2 tackles, 1.2 interceptions, 1.3 clearances, 1.0 shots, 0.5 key passes and 1.8 dribbles per game in the Ligue 1 this season (stats via whoscored). His numbers prove just how influential he can be at both ends of the field. However, there are some question marks over whether he has what it takes to cope with the physicality and high intensity of Premier League football.
Sarr has come through the youth ranks of the FC Metz academy, but is yet to make a senior appearance for France. The Lyon-born talent has been a late bloomer, but has show signs of progress last season which could see him stake a claim for a spot in Didier Deschamps’ squad for next year’s UEFA European Championship finals.
What Will The French Full-Back Add To Steve Bruce’s Team?
Sarr can use his quickness and agility to make some penetrative runs with the ball down the right flank. The Frenchman loves to get to the by-line, and as mentioned earlier, he has averaged nearly two dribbles per game in the Ligue 1 last season.
Sarr is often quite accurate with his ball-distribution after completing 84.7% of his attempted passes in league football (stats via whoscored). He can also pull off some crucial interceptions and last-ditch clearances for his side which makes him a reliable defender at the back.
Is Sarr The Right Choice For The Magpies?
The Magpies can benefit from adding a right-back of Sarr’s skill set as he will not only add a bit more stability and variety to Steve Bruce’s defence, but also enhance the overall depth of his squad. Plus, he will increase competition for the likes of Javier Manquillo, Emil Krafth and DeAndre Yedlin at St. James’ Park next season if Newcastle can find a way to recruit him when the transfer window reopens later this month.
At 28, Sarr is currently playing at his peak which the Magpies could look to benefit from over the next few years. All in all, he will be an excellent choice for the Tyneside giants to consider ahead of the new season.
