In a recent report, Hurriyet mentioned that Newcastle United are in talks to sign Galatasaray talent Nicolo Zaniolo this summer. It has been stated that the Magpies are eyeing a move to land the Italy international before the end of this transfer window.
Zaniolo’s Decent Numbers In Turkish Football Last Season
Zaniolo enjoyed a decent campaign at the Turkish club recently as he put in a few eye-catching displays for them on the attacking end of the field. The 24-year-old found the back of the net on five occasions and secured one assist in 12 appearances for his current club last season in various competitions.
The Italy international proved himself to be a valuable contributor in the final third based on his average of 2.2 shots and 0.7 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Turkish Super Lig. However, he was a bit sloppy when distributing the ball in the opponent’s half after making just 73.7% of his attempted passes in the Turkish top tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at the Turkish club will expire in the summer of 2027. Thus, Newcastle United will have to make a sizable offer if they are serious about bringing Zaniolo to St. James’ Park this summer.
What Will Zaniolo Add To Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe’s Team?
Zaniolo is proficient at finding a yard of space for himself to get a few strikes in at goal. He can strike the ball purely and with venom from long range and can make some intelligent runs with the ball in the opposition half.
The Italian sensation can even create the odd chance for his teammates up top. However, he needs to improve his link-up play up top.
Zaniolo would no doubt add more quality to Newcastle boss Eddie Howe‘s attacking department. He will offer some decent competition for Miguel Almiron and Anthony Gordon at the Tyneside club over the next few years.
Zaniolo mainly functions as an attacking midfielder but can also fill in as a box-to-box midfielder or as a right-sided wide player if instructed to do so by his manager.
At 24, Zaniolo has his best years ahead of him which makes him a worthy target for the Magpies to pursue during this summer transfer period.
