According to a recent report by the Sun, Newcastle United are keeping tabs on the progress of Spezia Calcio forward David Okereke ahead of a potential move in the summer. The same source has also mentioned that the Magpies will face stiff competition from Wolverhampton Wanderers and Crystal Palace in pursuit of the Serie B sensation during the summer transfer period.
The Rapid Rise Of David Okereke
The Nigerian striker has enjoyed a fabulous season with Spezia thus far after putting in numerous match-winning performances for them during this campaign. Since his arrival from Lavagnese back in 2016, the 21-year-old has gradually worked his way up Spezia’s youth system and has finally managed to establish himself as a regular starter in Pasquale Marino’s first XI.
Okereke has featured in 32 matches for the Italian outfit, registering ten goals while providing 12 assists in all competitions. He has also represented Nigeria at the Under-23 level after scoring one goal in one appearance for them so far.
At 21, the Spezia sensation still has a lot of years to improve his game and has the potential to become a world-class centre-forward in European football someday. For now, he needs to concentrate on honing his skills while leading the line up top.
What Will The Nigerian Talent Bring To St. James’ Park?
Okereke boasts blistering pace which makes him such a lethal weapon for Spezia in the final third. He can also make some well-timed runs behind the opposing backline but lacks the intelligence to do it consistently during a game. The Nigerian frontman is a raw talent who needs to sharpen his game if he wants to succeed at the highest level.
Newcastle are in dire need of a new striker as Salomon Rondon is set to return to West Bromwich Albion when his loan spell expires later this summer. Rafael Benitez will have to find a way to bring in a proven goal-scorer in this offseason so that the Magpies have a strong squad capable of challenging on all fronts next season.
Is Okereke The Right Fit For The Magpies?
However, truth be told, Okereke is yet to prove his worth at the top level and doesn’t merit a regular starting berth for the Tyneside outfit. So unless Benitez wants to bring him to St. James’ Park as an impact substitute, it could turn out to be a disaster for them as the Nigerian forward is still not ready to feature in the Premier League on a weekly basis.
