Newcastle United’s chief scout Graham Carr has singled out Jordy Clasie as the man to fill the void in their midfield, left by the departed Yohan Cabaye, but they face competition from a number of clubs, according to the Times.
As it stands, Southampton are the front runners for Clasie’s signature. Ronald Koeman worked with the Dutchman during his tenure with Feyenoord and, with Morgan Schneiderlin actively looking to depart St Mary’s, a reunion is definitely on the cards.
The Saints, currently one point behind fifth placed Liverpool, could potentially have the additional lure of Europa League football too.
However, Newcastle believe they hold the ultimate trump card as they are willing to offer Clasie’s fellow compatriot Vurnon Anita, either on loan or permanently, as part of the deal – an instant replacement for the 23-year-old.
Despite Anita has failed to establish himself as a regular fixture at St James’ Park and the club appear more than keen to cut their loses on a player who cost them £7million from Ajax in 2012.
Recently, PSV Eindhoven’s chief Marcel Brands launched a verbal attack on the versatile midfielder, claiming ‘he will never be a star player for Newcastle’.
“The average agent is again showing more interest in players and not just in the top players who everyone wants. (Vurnon) Anita, I still think, is one of the most miraculous transfers,” Brands said.
He added: “Let’s be honest, at Ajax he was almost a substitute and he will never be on our shortlist at PSV.
“He will never be a star player for Newcastle, but he is still there. Apparently the foundation from Ajax and the Eredivisie have been good enough.”
