In their piece ranking the Newcastle United squad following their confirmation of the 25-man Premier League squad, the Athletic reveal some interesting news about what the club want in the transfer market.
Obviously, the business ended fairly early over the course of the summer as Steve Bruce struggled to shift a number of players on big wages, so these desires went unanswered but perhaps 2021 can offer a more realistic chance.
Indeed, the Magpies reportedly want a faster defender capable on the ball to fit alongside either Jamaal Lascelles or Federico Fernandez as well as a more dynamic option in the middle of the park, ideally a box-to-box midfielder.
Previously, Newcastle’s defensive options have been described as a ‘much of muchness’ so the idea of having a faster player to potentially allow the Magpies to play further up the pitch would be a welcome addition. Meanwhile, no central midfielder this season has been able to offer more than 1.2 dribbles a game (Jonjo Shelvey) suggesting a lack of ability to link the attack from deeper positions.
Which transfer is more important?
Faster CB
Box-to-box CM
Perhaps additions along those lines would finally make Newcastle more entertaining to watch. In theory, more pace at the back could allow for a higher line when it comes to taking the game to the opposition and a more dynamism in midfield could see an added attacking thrust.
With eleven players out of contract in 2021 and signings made at both left-back and striker (the two most pressing areas when last season ended) there is of course of a chance more money could be committed to making those moves. Things are rarely that straightforward with Newcastle, as we know, but it’s certainly worth considering.