The Daily Mail has recently reported that Newcastle United are in talks with AS Monaco to land Benoit Badiashile. It is believed that the Magpies are holding discussions with the French club over a potential move for the Limoges-born talent as Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his defence this month.
Badiashile’s Decent Form In French Football This Season
Badiashile is having a solid campaign at the Stade Louis II after putting in a series of dominant displays at the heart of Monaco’s backline. The French centre-half has featured in 19 matches for Philippe Clement’s side this season, picking up one assist in the process across all fronts.
The 20-year-old has been a rock at the back for Monaco as he is averaging 1.7 tackles, 1.2 interceptions and 2.4 clearances per game in the Ligue 1 so far. Badiashile has even been accurate with his ball distribution, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 88.3% in top-flight football (stats via whoscored).
The 4th Official uses images provided by the following image agency:
Getty Images (https://www.gettyimages.de/)
Imago Images (https://www.imago-images.de/)
Is Badiashile The Right Choice For Newcastle United?
Badiashile can time his tackles well to secure the ball back on the defensive end of the field. He is usually quick to spot the danger and doesn’t shy away from putting his foot through the ball when needed. Standing at 1.94m, the French powerhouse can use his strength to dominate the opposition attackers in the air. Furthermore, he is a tidy passer of the ball which makes him a good fit for Eddie Howe’s brand of football at St. James’ Park.
Badiashile will add a lot of bite and steel to the Newcastle defence and could serve as an upgrade over Fabian Schar who has flattered to deceive with his performances for the Tyneside outfit this season.
At 20, the Monaco whizkid has got a very promising future ahead of him and could be a great choice for the Magpies to pursue in the long run. However, there are some concerns over whether he would be able to maintain his good form in English football where he might find it difficult to cope with the intensity of the Premier League.
