In a recent interview with the Daily Record, former Bundesliga player Vidar Riseth has tipped Newcastle United to land Celtic defender Kristoffer Ajer this summer. Riseth said,
“I think he’ll end up at Newcastle if he wants to leave.
“I’ve spoken with him many times and he likes Celtic.
“I also know the club is working to keep him. But if he is going to leave I would imagine it would be to Newcastle.”
Ajer’s Solid Form At Celtic Park This Season
Despite Celtic’s struggles in Scottish football this season, Ajer is personally having another solid campaign at Parkhead as he has often been a rock at the back for his team over the past ten months. The Norwegian defensive ace has taken part in 44 matches for the Glaswegian giants this term, registering one goal and four assists in various competitions.
The 23-year-old deserves a pat on the back for averaging 1.3 tackles, 1.4 interceptions, 3.4 clearances, 0.5 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per game in the Scottish Premiership. He has even been careful when distributing possession from the back, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 88.2% in the Scottish first division (stats via whoscored).
Ajer will just have a year left on his contract at the end of this campaign, so Celtic will have no choice but to cash in on him this summer or else risk losing him as a free agent next year. Hence, he could be a good, cut-price option for Newcastle boss Steve Bruce to consider during the summer transfer window.
Is Ajer The Right Fit For The Glaswegian Club?
Standing at 1.98m, Ajer can use his powerful frame to win a lot of aerial duels and has established himself as a composed defender at the back for Celtic since joining from Start back in 2016. The Norwegian centre-back can use his strength to overpower the opposition and win the ball back for his side. He is often quick to sense the danger and can clear his lines when called into action.
Therefore, Ajer will be a great fit for Newcastle as he would add a lot of bite and steel to their backline that has sometimes struggled to keep things tidy on the defensive third of the pitch during this campaign. The 21-time Norway international will bring plenty of competition for Fabian Schar, Jamaal Lascelles, Ciaran Clark and Paul Dummett at St. James’ Park next season.
At 23, Ajer has his best years ahead of him which the Magpies could look to capitalize on if they decide to listen to Riseth’s advice by orchestrating a move to bring him to Tyneside in this off-season. All in all, the Celtic star will be a welcome addition to Newcastle’s squad as he could help them steer clear of the relegation zone in the Premier League over the next few years.
