In a recent print edition, Tuttosport has revealed that Newcastle United are in the race to land Torino forward Andrea Belotti in this off-season. It is believed that the Magpies could face some competition from Manchester United and Everton in pursuit of the Italian frontman during this summer transfer window (transcripted and translated by Sport Witness).
Belotti’s Impressive Form At Turin Last Season
The Calcinate-born striker had the pleasure of experiencing another prolific season in Italian football after he put in several match-winning performances as the centre-piece of the Torino attack. He participated in 44 matches for his current club in the previous campaign, finding the back of the net 22 times while earning four assists across all fronts.
Belotti was playing some of the best football of his career last season and did well to average 2.9 shots, 1.2 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per game in the Serie A. However, the Italian marksman needs to take care of the ball a bit better as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 68.8% in the top tier of Italy (stats via whoscored).
The 26-year-old has so far enjoyed an impressive career in Italian football. Belotti has also done well for the Italian national team after netting nine goals in 27 senior appearances for them in various competitions. This summer seems like the right time for Belotti to move on in search of greener pastures, so the Magpies should consider orchestrating a move for him soon.
What Will The Italian International Add To Steve Bruce’s Team?
Belotti is a well-rounded forward as he can do a bit of everything when leading the charge up top. He is an excellent finisher in the attacking third and has got the tenacity to win a lot of headers using his strength and power. The Italian sensation is not afraid to work his socks off when running the channels for the benefit of his side. He is also a natural leader for his team but needs to improve his shot accuracy from long range.
A forward of Belotti’s goal-scoring prowess will undeniably be a significant addition to the Magpies squad ahead of the new campaign. He will add a lot of goals to Steve Bruce’s attack and has got all the skillset required to be a grand success in Premier League football.
The ex-Palermo striker is a wonderful header of the ball which makes him a potent threat from set-pieces in the final third. Belotti would be an upgrade over Joelinton, Andy Carroll and Dwight Gayle after they all struggled to give a good account of themselves last season. The Torino star fits the bill perfectly and could turn out to be a gem of a signing if Bruce can pull off the deal to acquire his services during this ongoing transfer window.