If a report from Jeunes Footeux (as claimed by the Chronicle Live) is believed to be true, Newcastle United are keen on roping in Montreal Impact playmaker Djordje Mihailovic. But they are not alone in the hunt as the likes of Everton, Borussia Dortmund, Roma and Atalanta are also keeping close tabs on the USMNT international.
The 23-year-old midfield star progressed through the youth ranks of Chicago Fire. He eventually made his MLS debut back in March 2017 and went on to make 75 senior appearances before leaving for Montreal. There he enjoyed an impressive league campaign with 4 goals and 14 assists in 34 games and his emergence has caught the attention of an array of European outfits.
The Saudi-led takeover has changed the Magpies’ fortune in terms of finances and investment. They were rock bottom at one stage but are climbing up the league ladder under Eddie Howe’s tutelage. The winter arrival of Kieran Trippier, Chris Wood, Bruno Guimarães, Dan Burn and Matt Targett bolstered them significantly across the pitch and the spending spree is likely to continue in summer if they escape relegation by the closure of the current campaign.
While the Toon Army are now blessed to lure in high-profile names, little-known Mihailovic could be a shrewd piece of business. A squad overhaul might occur in the upcoming window and the club would require both renowned stars as well as promising youngsters to build a legacy in the long run.
Why It’s A Smart Move From Newcastle United
Newcastle have enough options in midfield, but the majority of them are comfortable as a ‘number 6’ or ‘number 8′. Jonjo Shelvey, Isaac Hayden and Guimarães are more effective from the deep, whereas Joelinton has also recently been converted into a central midfielder. The future looks uncertain for Jeff Hendrick and the Longstaff brothers which, however, might pave the way for Mihailovic at St James’ Park.
Even though the Montreal youngster would add a new dimension in the middle of the park, the Magpies have Joe Willock in their ranks who is also capable of featuring as an attacking midfielder. Howe is deploying a flat three-man midfield for the time being, but the formation and strategy could change in the forthcoming future once he gets more tools to work with.
Having said that, the signing of Miguel Almirón from MLS has not really worked out for the Tynesiders. The Paraguayan is a fan-favourite for his commitment and work ethic, but the numbers he had with Atlanta United have not been replicated high up the pitch. Mihailovic must understand the expectations and demands of the English game before plying his trade in Newcastle.
