Not too long ago, a report from the Bild came out that Newcastle United were interested in signing Nuremberg midfielder Patrick Erras this summer. Along with the Magpies, Bundesliga outfit like Borussia Monchengladbach and Bayer Leverkusen are also said to be interested in this 24-year-old-midfielder. The report also adds that both the German sides are willing to pay €10m for the Amberg born midfielder.
Erras also went on to confirm that various clubs have approached his agent. He was quoted as saying, ”I can confirm that clubs from the Premier League and the Bundesliga have already approached my advisor. But my first contact will always be the club.”
Why does Newcastle United need to sign a defensive midfielder?
The Magpies are set to face a crisis in midfield in the summer. Isaac Hayden has already indicated to the club that he wants to leave in the summer due to family reasons. Mohamed Diame’s contract is expiring in a few months, and it is still not clear whether the midfielder would be handed a new deal.
Jonjo Shelvey has been out of favour in the past few months, and he has continuously been linked with a move to West Ham United. So as many as three midfielders could depart from the club in the summer.
What will Erras bring to the table?
The 6ft5 midfielder has managed 14 appearances for his side in the Bundesliga this season. Given his physical frame, he can play as a centre back as well when required. The fact that some German heavyweights like Leverkusen and Monchengladbach are interested in him suggests that they see decent talent in the 24-year-old.
Erras is physically strong, and he can influence the game with his interception and tackling skills. He is comfortable on the ball as well and can pick out a neat pass or two when required.
Is he worth €10m?
The midfielder has failed to establish himself for Nuremberg, and that is going to be a concern for the Magpies as well. The fact that the midfielder isn’t even a regular for a relegation-threatened Bundesliga side suggests that he might find it hard to establish himself in the English top flight with Newcastle. As a squad player, the midfielder makes a case for himself, but we don’t think that the €10m price is justified. Therefore if he isn’t available for a lesser amount, we feel that Newcastle United can look at other midfielders who will be certain to perform at this level.
