According to a recent report by Fotomac (via Sports Witness), Newcastle United are plotting a summer move for Benfica midfielder Andreas Samaris. However, the same source has also mentioned that the Magpies will face stiff competition from Galatasaray, Wolverhampton Wanderers and West Ham United in pursuit of the Liga NOS talent during the summer transfer window.
Samaris’ Incredible Form For Benfica This Season
The Greek international has enjoyed a solid campaign with Benfica after putting in some dominant performances for them while operating at the heart of Bruno Lage’s midfield during this campaign. His remarkable contributions in midfield have put his team in pole position to secure the Primera Liga title next weekend.
The Patras born midfielder has featured in 26 matches for Benfica this term, scoring two goals while providing two assists in all competitions. More importantly, he has made an average of 2.0 tackles, 1.1 interceptions and 1.3 clearances per game for his team so far (Stats taken from Whoscored).
Samaris has also secured 35 international caps for the Greek national side and has one goal to his name for his nation. The former Olympiakos talent is under contract at Estádio Sport Lisboa e Benfica until the summer of 2023 so Benfica will be under no pressure to sell in this offseason.
What Does The Greek Midfielder Offer On The Pitch?
Samaris reads the game well which helps him make some crucial interceptions for his team. He is a tough-tackling defensive midfielder who is aerially dominant because of his incredible upper body strength. However, he can sometimes be careless while passing the ball and lacks the pace to recover in 1v1 situations.
The potential acquisition of the Benfica midfield ace will undoubtedly bolster Rafael Benitez’s midfield options at St. James’ Park. Newcastle United are in dire need to bring in some quality prospects like Samaris this summer so that they have a strong enough squad to secure a top half finish in the Premier League table next season.
Will Samaris Be A Good Signing For Newcastle?
Hence, Benitez should do everything in his power to bring the Greek international to Tyneside before the start of the new season as he will an excellent addition to his squad for the long-run.
