If a report from Bild is believed to be true, Newcastle United are keeping close tabs on Djibril Sow. But they are not alone in the race as the likes of Arsenal and Nottingham Forest are locked in a three-way battle for the Eintracht Frankfurt midfield ace.
The 25-year-old Switzerland international progressed through the academy ranks of BC Albisrieden and FC Zürich back in his homeland. A bright spell in the youth setup earned him a transfer to Borussia Mönchengladbach. But his minutes were limited for their senior squad, resulting in a return to Switzerland with Young Boys for a fee of around €1.7m.
Sow was integral to Young Boys’ 2017–18 Swiss Super League triumph and his emergence caught the Eagles’ attention. They brought him back to Germany in the summer of 2019 and his dominant display in the middle of the park helped them conquer the 2021-22 Europa League crown defeating Rangers in the tie-breaker.
So far he has featured 137 times for Eintracht Frankfurt, including 24 appearances this season in all competitions. They have made it to the Round of 16 of the Champions League, as well as the ongoing FIFA World Cup where they will lock horns with Portugal for a place in the quarterfinals. Sow started all three group-stage encounters and also registered an assist in their thrilling 3-2 victory against Serbia.
Why Newcastle United Should Snap Him Up
Newcastle United are back in business following the Saudi-led takeover. Eddie Howe’s appointment as the new manager is a breath of fresh air and the Toon Army are now fighting for a Champions League berth. Not only the transfer deals but also an exciting brand of football has transformed the club, and the spending spree is likely to continue in the coming days for depth as well as quality across the squad.
The Tynesiders have ample options in the centre of the pitch. Bruno Guimarães has been an excellent addition who is now pulling the strings as a deep-lying playmaker, whereas Joelinton has been a revelation since being converted into a central midfielder.
Joe Willock, Sean Longstaff and Jonjo Shelvey are also there among the other ‘number 8’ options, but the gaffer must be aiming for someone who would offer physicality, composure with the ball on his feet along with a great range of passing to open up space in the opposition half. Sow ticks many boxes to fit in Howe’s free-flowing football and it remains to be seen whether the Geordies step up the chase in winter.
