According to a recent report by Gianluca DiMarzio, Newcastle United are eyeing a summer move for Sassuolo left-back Rogerio. The same source has also claimed that the Brazilian youngster could be on his way to join the Premier League with the Magpies interested in acquiring his services during this summer transfer period.
Rogerio’s Season Of Mixed Emotions In Italian Football
The Serie A defender has endured an injury-ravaged season in Italy, but has still managed to put in some impressive displays down the left flank. The 22-year-old had registered one goal and one assist in 17 matches for the Italian outfit last season across all competitions. However, he missed several games in the previous campaign due to a meniscal injury.
Rogerio did well to average 1.3 tackles, 0.6 interceptions, 2.1 clearances, 0.7 shots, 0.8 key passes and 0.7 dribbles per game in the Serie A last season. He has also taken care of the ball well as evident from his pass success rate of 87.8% in league football (stats via whoscored).
The Nobres-born talent has also represented Brazil at various youth levels, but is yet to make a senior appearance for his country. Maybe a change of scenery this summer could give him a chance to make a fresh start and put his injury concerns behind him in the coming seasons.
What Will The Brazilian Starlet Bring To The Table?
Rogerio can use his pace and agility to make a few driving runs on the left-wing. He has proven himself to be a reliable defender at the back as he can pull off some crucial interceptions and last-ditch clearances inside his half. The Brazilian is also a decent crosser from the left and can deliver a few inviting balls into the opposition penalty box. However, he is still quite raw and would need time to develop into a top talent, so Steve Bruce would need to be patient with him if he ends up recruiting him this summer.
Will Rogerio Be A Good Option For The Magpies?
A left-back of Rogerio’s skill set and potential will be a welcome addition to the Newcastle squad ahead of the new season. He will not only add some pace and variety to Bruce’s defence, but also improve the overall depth of his squad at Tyneside.
Furthermore, Rogerio could prove to be an upgrade over Danny Rose, who endured a difficult loan spell with the Magpies in the recently concluded Premier League campaign. He will also free up Javier Manquillo to feature in his preferred right-back spot at St. James’ Park next season.
At 22, Rogerio is about to embark upon the prime years of his football career which the Tyneside giants could look to benefit from in the future. All in all, the Brazilian sensation will be a decent option for Newcastle in this off-season as he could help them avoid getting dragged into a relegation dogfight next year.