If a report from Calciomercato is believed to be true, Newcastle United are keeping close tabs on Villarreal winger Arnaut Danjuma. But the Magpies are not alone in the hunt as the likes of Everton and West Ham United have also identified the Dutchman over a potential summer transfer.
Danjuma had an underwhelming spell in the Premier League when he joined Bournemouth from Club Brugge back in August 2019. The Cherries endured relegation next year and the Netherlands international thrived in the Championship with 17 goals and 8 assists in 35 outings. However, the Dorset-based side could not secure an immediate return to the top flight of the English pyramid and the wide attacker was eventually roped in by the Yellow Submarine for a fee of around €23.5m.
Since his summer switch to La Liga, the Dutch wingman has fired in 12 goals and laid on 3 more in 22 appearances so far this season. His stakes are high right now, but a release clause of around €75m needs to be triggered to rope him in the forthcoming future. Danjuma is under a long-term contract that runs until the summer of 2026 and Villarreal, therefore, would make a significant financial profit even if they listen to offers for their prized asset.
Newcastle, meanwhile, are enjoying a boisterous run after a dreadful start to the 2021-22 campaign. The Saudi-led takeover helped them splash the cash during the winter window and the Magpies are climbing up the league ladder under the tutelage of Eddie Howe. The transition would continue with more additions in due time and the monetary supremacy makes them capable of matching the demanded figure for the 25-year-old attacking ace.
Why Newcastle United Should Splash The Cash
Howe secured his services at Dean Court back in the Bournemouth days and a reunion at St James’ Park can’t be ruled out given the circumstances. Predominantly a left-winger, Danjuma has flourished down the middle as a centre-forward and his excellence in front of goal would bolster the Toon Army in the attacking third.
Allan Saint-Maximin has been impressive high up the pitch and his expertise down the left would allow Danjuma to spearhead the frontline. Injuries have refrained Callum Wilson from settling down in Tyneside, whereas Joelinton is now deployed in midfield after a barren run in front of goal. Dwight Gayle is not good enough for a first-team role, and Chris Wood, the January arrival from Burnley, is yet to find the net in his six appearances as a targetman.
The signing of the Villarreal star would be a statement of intent from the Magpies board who are keen on a quick overhaul to compete for silverware.
