Former Premier League striker Kevin Phillips believes that Liverpool winger Xherdan Shaqiri would “jump at the chance” to join Newcastle United this summer but prompted the club to seek other targets.
The Switzerland international was linked with a move away from Anfield in January with Roma and Sevilla believed to be interested in his services.
Shaqiri has been ostracised from the Reds squad this season, which has been partly down to a reoccurring calf injury that he has sustained.
Since his £13m move from Stoke City in the summer of 2018, the Swiss middle man has scored seven goals and provided five assists in 40 appearances for Jurgen Klopp’s side over the course of two seasons.
Speaking to Football Insider, Phillips was convinced that the Champions League winner will not turn down the opportunity to move to Tyneside.
Would you bring Xherdan Shaqiri to Newcastle?
Yes
No
“From a player’s point of view, it would be a great move for him,” he said.
“It has not quite worked out for him at Liverpool. He has been used sparingly because of injuries but when he has been used he has never let the club down.
“If it looks like you could go to a club that could potentially do a Manchester City – you would want to be a part of that.
“I think Shaqiri would jump at the chance but I am not so sure if it would be a sensible move from the club.”
Phillips added that Newcastle need someone “a little bit younger” and does not suffer from injury problems.
Despite his problems, he would be a great signing for us. As he proved for Stoke during his time there, Shaqiri can be a serious threat going forward and when it comes to creativity at the top end of the field.