In a recent Q and A with Chronicle Live, renowned writer Lee Ryder was asked about whether Newcastle United were interested in acquiring the services of Atlanta United striker Josef Martínez to which he replied, ‘Steve Nickson has definitely scouted him and they are monitoring.’
The Magpies have already signed Miguel Almiron from the Major League Soccer club and could now go back in for his former teammate Martinez as they try to find a solution to their goal-scoring concerns in the final third.
Martinez’s Excellent Form In The United States
The 26-year-old has a fantastic goal-scoring record in the MLS and has emerged as a fan favourite at Atlanta. He has scored 77 goals and registered nine assists in 83 league matches so far. Martinez has also been an influential member of the Venezuelan national side, having netted 12 goals in 54 international games across all competitions.
The Valencia-born talent primarily operates as a centre-forward but can also fill in as a left-winger if required. Even though the Venezuelan star failed to prove his worth in the Serie A early in his career, he has shown tremendous character to transform himself into a prolific goal-getter in the MLS.
What Will The Venezuelan Speedster Bring To Tyneside?
Martinez boasts blistering pace and can make some darting runs with the ball in the final third. He is an unforgiving presence in front of the opposition goal which explains why he has found the back of the net so consistently in the MLS thus far. He is also a menace in the air but needs to work on improving his hold up play if he wants to break into the world-class bracket someday.
Is Martinez The Right Option For The Magpies?
Steve Bruce currently has Joelinton and Andy Carroll available for selection while Dwight Gayle and Yoshinori Muto are both sidelined due to injury. None of their current strikers has been able to bang in the goals regularly at St. James’ Park this season. Hence, the Newcastle boss should consider making a move for Martinez before the end of this month.
The Venezuela international will be a decent option for the Tyneside giants and has all the skillset required to help them push for a top-half finish in the Premier League this term.
