The Chronicle has recently reported that Eintracht Frankfurt full-back Jetro Willems is eager to seal a return to Newcastle United. It is understood that the Dutch defender has declined a chance to extend his contract at Frankfurt which could open the door for the Magpies to secure his services during the January transfer window (via The Chronicle).
Willems’ Incredible Loan Spell At Tyneside Last Season
The former PSV Eindhoven talent has not played a single minute for his current employers this season because he is still making his way back from a cruciate ligament rupture which he sustained during his loan stay at St. James’ Park in the previous campaign. The 26-year-old made a real impression and won a lot of fans amongst the Toon Army with his performances last season when he participated in 20 matches for the Magpies, netting two goals and providing three assists in various competitions.
The 22-time Netherlands international did well to catch the eye by averaging 1.9 tackles, 0.9 interceptions, 2.0 clearances, 0.7 shots, 0.8 key passes and 1.1 dribbles per 90 minutes in the last edition of the Premier League. However, Willems needs to take care of possession a bit better as he made 76.9% of his attempted passes in English football last season (stats via whoscored).
Now that the Dutch defender has refused to pen a contract extension with Eintracht Frankfurt, it makes sense for Newcastle boss Steve Bruce to make a move to re-sign him when the transfer window reopens at the start of next month.
What Will The Dutch Left-Back Bring To The Table?
Willems is a deceptively quick wide player who can complete some energetic dribbles down the left flank. He possesses the strength to shield the ball, which can make him a tricky proposition for the opposition defenders to cope with when he is coming at them at full swing.
The Dutch sensation can also deliver some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty area and is a reliable defender inside his half as well. He can even use his athleticism to pull off some essential clearances for his team.
Should The Magpies Bring Willems Back To Tyneside In January?
Bruce knows Willems well from previously working with him at Newcastle, so he would know exactly what to expect if he decides to land him this winter. The Magpies have currently got Jamal Lewis playing regularly on the left side of Bruce’s defence with Javier Manquillo serving as his back-up as the Spaniard is versatile enough to fill in as a makeshift left-back if needed.
Hence, the Tyneside outfit can benefit a lot from re-signing Willems during the January transfer window as he will add some healthy competition for Lewis for a regular spot in Bruce’s starting XI. All in all, the Magpies should consider bringing the Dutch defender back to St. James Park on loan or permanently next month.
