In a recent report, The Daily Mail stated that Newcastle United have identified Juventus midfielder Weston McKennie as a January target. It is understood that the Magpies boss Eddie Howe is keen on strengthening his midfield and could make a move to land the United States international this winter.
McKennie’s Decent Run Of Form At The Allianz Stadium This Season
McKennie has managed to establish himself as an important member of Juve’s starting XI and deserves credit for producing some impressive displays for them in Italian football. The Texas-born sensation has found the back of the net twice in 14 matches for the Italian giants this season in multiple competitions.
The 23-year-old has given a good account of himself by averaging 1.0 tackles, 1.0 interceptions, 0.9 clearances, 1.1 shots, 0.6 key passes and 0.9 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A. However, he needs to take care of the ball a bit better when distributing it out from midfield, based on his pass success rate of 74.7% in the Italian top tier (stats via whoscored).
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Is McKennie A Good Choice For Newcastle United?
McKennie can use his quickness to make some promising runs with the ball from midfield. He also doesn’t shy away from having a shot at goal when afforded time and space by the opposition. However, he needs to add a few more goals and assists to his game in the final third.
Defensively, the 28-time United States international can get stuck in with a few solid tackles to make life difficult for the opposition at the centre of the park. He can offer decent protection for his teammates at the back by clearing the danger when needed.
At 23, McKennie’s best years are ahead of him which means that the Magpies can expect to get the best out of him over the next few years if they can arrange a move for him this January. He will enhance the quality of Eddie Howe‘s midfield department and could go on to become a future star at St. James’ Park. All in all, a midfielder of McKennie’s skill set will be an excellent choice for the Tyneside outfit to pursue during this winter transfer period.
