Eintracht Frankfurt loanee Jetro Willems has so far put in some impressive performances for Newcastle United and the Magpies are now considering (The Chronicle) turning his deal into a permanent one. The left-back has a clause in his contract which would allow the Magpies to sign him permanently.
Reports in Germany suggest that United will have to trigger a clause of £10m to sign him next summer. On the back of his recent performances, that might seem like a bargain deal for the Tyneside outfit.
Willems never really managed to establish himself for Frankfurt last season as he started in just seven games in the Bundesliga. The Dutch international was often used as a central midfielder, and he played in various positions last season. He was nothing more than a squad player with the German outfit, and £10m might have seemed like a decent sum for him in the summer.
However, Willems has surprised everyone with his performance at St. James’ Park at left-back. He scored a brilliant goal against Liverpool earlier. In the last game, he assisted the winner for Matthew Longstaff against Manchester United. It is not surprising to see that the Toon are now considering getting him in a £10m deal.
Willems was lucky to get his chances as Matt Ritchie was the first choice option at left wing-back. However, an injury to him gave the Dutchman a chance to shine, and he has grabbed his opportunity with both hands (or feet if we are to be completely accurate).
What has made Willems stand out?
The 25-year-old is a powerful operator, and he has the physical side to his game which is often essential to thrive in the Premier League. Defensively, he is tenacious and works hard and can hold his own at the back. However, he has surprised quite a few of us with his attacking prowess.
Willems can carry the ball well from the back, and he has shown the composure to deliver the right ball in the final third. Given his attacking talent, work rate and physical presence, he is an ideal fallback option for Bruce. Matt Ritchie might face a hard time to get back his place in the eleven once he gets fit.
£10m in today’s day and age for a versatile 25-year-old option; the figure is more than a bargain. And it almost seems like a no brainer that United will trigger the clause to get him on board permanently.
