Newcastle look set to miss out on Ryan Babel after it has been reported that he is set to sign for Ajax on loan.
The Dutch forward has been linked to United throughout this window, as per Eurosport, however, a return to where it all began now looks like the most likely outcome for the 33-year-old.
Turkish outlet Fanatik (via Sport Witness) report that the Netherlands international flew to Amsterdam yesterday evening ahead of signing a six month deal with the Eredivisie champions.
The story claims that the Magpies did in fact have interest in the player, but it now almost a certainty that they will be missing out on their target.
Would you sign Emmanuel Dennis?
Yes, he looks a top prospect
No, we should look elsewhere
It’s no secret that the Toon have been looking for more attacking options in this window, and it’s no surprise considering only three goals have come from wingers and strikers after 21 games this season, with Joelinton, Allan Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron having one apiece.
The former Liverpool man joined Galatasaray after a successful spell on loan at Fulham in the Premier League in the last campaign, though he hasn’t been able to find the same sort of form.
In 16 games for the Cottagers, he managed to score five goals and register four assists. There’s no doubt that Newcastle could really do with that sort of return at the moment, though there are certainly no assurances he could replicate that on Tyneside, especially with Steve Bruce’s tactics.
For Fatih Terim’s team, he has scored five goals in 15 games in the Super Lig, as well as one assist, which is less impressive than his record in England considering the level of the domestic game in Turker is far inferior.
On the whole, it wouldn’t have been the most inspiring signing at the club, however, his experience could have come in handy. Onwards and upwards.