In a recent print edition, Gazzetta dello Sport mentioned that Newcastle United are eyeing a move for Atalanta striker Duvan Zapata. It has been claimed that the Magpies have identified the Colombian striker as a potential target for this winter transfer window.
Zapata’s Excellent Numbers At The Gewiss Stadium
Zapata is having another exceptional campaign in Italian football as he has been responsible for putting in a series of productive displays while acting as the focal point of Atalanta’s attack. The 30-year-old found the back of the net on 12 occasions and provided seven assists in 22 matches for the Italian club this season in all competitions.
The Colombian sensation has given a good account of himself in the final third based on his average of 3.2 shots, 1.4 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in Serie A and the UEFA Champions League. He has even been accurate with his ball distribution after making 78.2% of his attempted passes in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
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What Will Zapata Bring To Newcastle United?
Zapata can use his quickness to make some decent runs with the ball and has got the vision to pick out a killer pass in and around the opposition penalty area. He is proficient at getting a few strikes in on-target and has transformed himself into a decent finisher in front of the opposition goal. Standing at 1.89m, Zapata can be a real handful for any defender and can hold the ball up effectively to get others involved in the final third.
The Colombia international will bring some pace and a lot of goals to Newcastle United‘s attack. He is good enough to help the Magpies retain their Premier League status this season and could go on to become a fan-favourite in English football.
Furthermore, Zapata might form a good attacking partnership with Chris Wood or Callum Wilson at St. James’ Park in the coming seasons. At 30, the Atalanta star has still got a few years left in him to play at a high level. Hence, Zapata will be a great option for the Tyneside outfit to consider before the end of this January transfer window.
