In a recent report, West London Sport claimed that Newcastle United are eager to land Queens Park Rangers keeper Asmir Begovic. However, it has been stated that the Magpies could face competition from West Ham United and some Saudi clubs in the race to sign the experienced custodian this summer.
Begovic’s Impressive Season At Loftus Road
The 36-year-old has enjoyed a solid campaign at the London club as he has put in a string of impressive displays for them in the EFL Championship. Begovic conceded 60 goals and kept 13 clean sheets in 46 appearances for QPR last season in multiple competitions.
The veteran keeper has done well to average 0.5 clearances and 4.7 long balls per game in the EFL Championship. However, he has lacked quality when distributing the ball from the back after completing 64.7% of his attempted passes in the English second tier (stats via whoscored).
His current contract at Loftus Road will expire at the end of this month. Hence, the Magpies could sign him on a free transfer later this summer.
Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Go For Begovic?
Begovic can be a safe pair of hands in between the sticks when he is playing well and with confidence on the field. He is a good handler of the ball and can use his quick reflexes to make a few solid saves at the back.
Begovic has got a wealth of experience in English football and won’t take much time to settle into life at Newcastle if Eddie Howe can find a way to get a deal done for him in this summer transfer period.
At 36, Begovic has entered the twilight years of his playing career. Still, the Magpies would benefit from recruiting him if they are planning to offer him a short-term contract this summer. He is good enough to serve as a rotational piece in the Tyneside club‘s squad next season.
Begovic has got the skillset to be a success story at St. James’ Park in the short term. Thus, Howe should focus on going for a free agent like him before the start of the new campaign. However, there are some concerns over whether he can maintain his good form in Premier League football.
