Three bargain options Newcastle United could use to bolster attack
New Years Day signals the opening of the January transfer window, and Eddie Howe may look to add to his attacking options.
With injuries across the season for both Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson, Newcastle United have struggled to get the optimal rotation out of their options up top.
Newcastle have spent big in the two January windows since the window on the likes of Kieran Trippier, Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon – but with holes elsewhere in the squad, namely the Sandro Tonali shaped hole in the midfield – whether a forward would be a priority is unclear.
Nevertheless, there are affordable options on the market that could make an immediate impact up front for the Magpies.
Serhou Guirassy
Newcastle are reporter to be amongst the clubs monitoring the situation of Stuttgart striker Serhou Guirassy. The Guinean has scored 17 goals in 14 games in the Bundesliga since joining Stuttgart on a permanent transfer in the summer.
The 27-year-old is reported to have a buyout clause of £15million, but there is set to be stiff competition from teams across the continent – though personal terms are said to be an issue for those negotiating with him.
Kevin Denkey
Currently plying his trade in the Belgian top-flight with Cercle Brugge, the 23-year-old could be available for as little as £6m.
Standing in a 6’ frame, the Togolese international has become renowned for his power and attacking intelligence – his excellent timing bagging the Togolese international 12 goals in 17 league games this season.
More adept when attacking the ball than coming back to link-up play, Howe would still have some work to do to mould Denkey into his perfect striker but, at just £6m, it may prove a risk worth taking.
Vangelis Pavlidis
Praised as a modern striker, Vangelis Pavlidis has been in fine form for AZ Alkmaar in the Eredivisie.
The Greek international has scored 18 in 15 league games in the Dutch top flight, to add to his three in the Europa Conference League.
Able to act as a target man, Pavlidis doesn’t fit the bill as a one-trick pony and has showcased his ability to drop back and make a run in behind after a combination with the midfield.
Pavlidis may cost Newcastle in the region of £25m, £5m less than was paid for Chris Wood in January two years ago.