In a recent report, Portuguese news outlet O Jogo has stated that Newcastle United are eyeing a move for Benfica full-back Nuno Tavares. However, it has been mentioned that the Magpies could be rivalled by Burnley, but both English teams are trailing Napoli in the race to land the Portuguese youngster (via O Jogo).
Tavares’ Recent Form At Lisbon This Season
The Lisboa-born talent has made a good impression by producing some solid displays in Portuguese football this season. Tavares has made 21 appearances for Benfica this term, picking up three assists and three yellow cards in the process across all competitions.
The Portuguese starlet has contributed in little ways at both ends of the field because he is averaging 0.9 tackles, 0.5 interceptions, 0.6 clearances, 0.8 key passes and 1.3 dribbles per 90 minutes in the Liga NOS and the UEFA Europa League. The 21-year-old has usually been tidy with his ball-distribution, as evidenced by his pass success rate of 77.5% in both those competitions (stats via whoscored).
Tavares’ current contract at Estádio do Sport Lisboa e Benfica runs out in the summer of 2024, so the Portuguese giants are in no immediate need to cash in on him, which could make it difficult for Newcastle to generate the funds to pull off a transfer.
What Will The Portuguese Left-Back Add To Steve Bruce’s Team?
Tavares boasts decent pace in his locker that helps him make some encouraging runs down the left flank. He is not afraid to take on his marker and can get himself to the by-line so that he can whip in some inviting crosses into the opponent’s penalty area.
The Portuguese starlet has a decent work-rate and can launch some powerful shots from long range when afforded time and space by the opposition. He is also a strong presence on the defensive end of the field but needs to improve his tackling and decision making if he wants to become a better defender in the coming seasons.
Tavares is still quite raw and would need time to develop his game so that he can become a world-class player in his position someday. Therefore, he will be a welcome addition to the Magpies if Steve Bruce can arrange a deal to bring him to St. James’ Park this summer.
The Portuguese prospect is good enough to keep Jamal Lewis on his toes for a regular starting place at Tyneside in the coming seasons. Tavares will be a great signing for the Magpies in the long-run, so Bruce should think about orchestrating a move to land him if he can generate some funds by selling off a few of his fringe players during the summer transfer window.
