In a recent report, The Daily Mail has mentioned that Newcastle United are keeping tabs on Leeds United forward Tyler Roberts’ situation with his current deal at Elland Road set to expire at the end of next season. It is understood that the Whites are eager to tie the Welsh striker down to a new contract which could make it difficult for the Magpies to land him during this summer transfer window (via The Daily Mail).
Roberts’ Season Of Mixed Emotions At Elland Road
Roberts has done well to fill in as a squad player under Marcelo Bielsa’s stewardship this season but is yet to find consistency at the highest level. The Welsh attacker has only managed to pick up two assists in 25 league matches but is yet to open his goal-scoring account for this campaign.
The 22-year-old has struggled to be productive with his contributions in the attacking end of the field as he is averaging 1.0 shots, 0.5 key passes and 0.6 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Premier League this season. He has also been a bit untidy when interchanging possession with his teammates in the opposition half, as evidenced by his pass completion rate of 71% in the top tier of English football (stats via whoscored).
At 22, Roberts still has time to turn his career around for the better and make a name for himself at the highest level. Hence, a summer switch to Newcastle could be a tempting opportunity for the player as he needs to make a fresh start so that he can find some form in top-flight football.
Will Roberts Be The Right Choice For The Magpies?
Roberts is a quick and agile forward who can run the channels and keep the opposition centre-backs occupied throughout the 90 minutes. He is proficient at getting a few shots on-target but has to find a way to add some goals to his game if he intends to play more often in the coming seasons.
Newcastle boss Steve Bruce is in dire need to add more quality to his squad so that he has a strong side capable of pushing for a top-half finish in the Premier League next season. Hence, recruiting someone as versatile as Roberts could be a shrewd move for the Magpies, especially if they can do so on a cut-price deal this summer.
With all things considered, Roberts will be a decent choice for the Tyneside outfit but only if they are planning to use him as a squad player. Otherwise, it won’t work out for Bruce as the Welsh youngster is still not ready to be thrown into the deep waters of top-flight football week in week out.
