Newcastle United are looking forward to signing Sheyi Ojo from Liverpool in this summer transfer window. Rafa Benitez has been in the search for a winger in the market and he reportedly has zeroed in on Ojo as a suitable player who would fit in his formation. The Magpies recently won the Championship title and would be hoping to emulate their form into the Premier League next season. Benitez will have a huge transfer kitty to spend in the summer and he wants to evenly distribute the balance so that the team shape remains perfect.
Ojo has endured a tough spell at the Anfield as he couldn’t utilise his potential to full force with injuries hurting his playing time. The 19-year-old is very highly rated but has seemed to fail to impress Jurgen Klopp who has given chances to a number of youngsters this season.
The winger is right now at the U-20 World Cup with the England squad. Ojo had a very fruitful last season as he made 11 appearances for the Reds last season and looked like he was ready to make it to the big stage. But subsequent injuries prevented him from doing so this season which resulted in very limited experiences to showcase his talent. But a player of his quality has the ability to breakthrough ranks and a move to a club like Newcastle United would be of much help. Benitez is known to be a nurturer of young talents and a player like Ojo would be a boost for hm.
The 19-year-old badly needs some first time game time to improve his play and Benitez could offer him the same. Staying at Liverpool doesn’t seem to be the perfect choice for him as it won’t guarantee a place for him in the first team.
Benitez is believed to have considered a number of options to improve his wider areas with the likes of Andros Townsend and Leicester’s Tom Lawrence. Ojo was sent to Wolves on loan in 2015 but the loan stint didn’t work out as the winger failed to take the chances handed out to him. He was also criticised for his dedication and focus but a hard taskmaster like Benitez could easily get the best out of him.
The winger is blessed with sheer pace and smooth running down the flanks. Whether a permanent deal might not happen, Klopp wouldn’t say no to a loan deal as he knows the quality and potential of this 19-year-old prodigy.
