In a recent report, The Sun has claimed that Newcastle United are locked in a three-way battle for Celtic midfielder Ryan Christie. It is understood that the Magpies could face some stiff competition from OGC Nice and Burnley in pursuit of the Scottish playmaker, whose current contract at Parkhead runs out in the summer of 2022 (via The Sun).
Christie’s Excellent Form At Celtic Park This Season
Christie has made a bright start to this season after putting in a series of influential displays for the Hoops before the international break. The Inverness-born attacker has netted three goals and provided seven assists in 13 matches for the Glaswegian outfit this term in various competitions.
The 25-year-old has done well to make a positive impact in both halves as he averaged 1.0 tackles, 1.0 clearances, 3.4 shots, 2.8 key passes, 2.2 crosses and 2.1 dribbles per game in the Scottish Premiership. He has even distributed possession immaculately in the opposition half so far this season after making 83% of his attempted passes in the Scottish first division (stats via whoscored).
The Inverness-born player’s incredible form in recent weeks has not gone unnoticed as several clubs including Newcastle are interested in acquiring his services. The Scottish playmaker could be tempted to make a switch to the Premier League where he will be tested both physically and emotionally against some of the best players in world football.
What Will The Scottish International Bring To St. James’ Park?
Christie is a well-rounded midfielder who has decent pace in his locker that allows him to complete some dangerous dribbles in the opponent’s half. He has a terrific work ethic and usually packs a lot of power with his shot attempts which makes him a potent threat from long range.
The 13-time Scottish international is not afraid to work hard on the defensive end of the field for the benefit of his teammates. However, he is yet to test himself at the highest level, so there are some serious question marks over whether he will be able to cope with the physical nature and high intensity of football in England.
Steve Bruce has currently got Miguel Almiron as his only natural option for the number ten position. Hence, recruiting a player of Christie’s undoubted talent could prove to be a shrewd move for the Magpies as he will provide some much-needed competition for Almiron in the race to secure a regular starting berth at the Tyneside club in the coming seasons.
Plus, Christie is highly versatile and can also fill in on the flanks when needed. Hence, he will also keep the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin, Ryan Fraser, Jeff Hendrick and Matt Ritchie on their toes at St. James’ Park. With all things considered, Newcastle should consider going all out in their transfer chase for the Scottish attacker’s signature in the future.
