Newcastle could be in store for an exciting new defensive addition – but it could spell the end of meaningful game-time for one outcast at St James’ Park.
According to Le Buteur [via Sport Witness], Napoli left-back Faouzi Ghoulam looks set to be nearing a move to Steve Bruce’s side in a bid to reinforce the Magpies’ defensive options, with the report claiming that they are ‘rather close to signing’ the Algerian defender.
Ghoulam reportedly ‘has strong chances of leaving in January’ despite seeing little in the way of meaningful opportunities to showcase his talents for Napoli. He has made just seven Serie A appearances for Gennaro Gattuso’s side this season, although it appears he has done enough to persuade suitors that he is worth recruiting.
The 29-year-old is a seasoned veteran with 230 top-flight career appearances and he is valued at just £4.5m by Transfermarkt. Typically a left-back, Ghoulam can also operate out wide in a more offensive capacity.
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Goal threat, plentiful experience and a modest valuation – Ghoulam seems like he would be a perfect signing! However, bringing him in as a third left-back would likely have implications for at least one man already at Newcastle.
Summer signing Jamal Lewis from Norwich City represents a significant outlay for the Magpies, costing a cool £14m. The Northern Ireland international could find his place under threat, whilst Emil Krafth would almost certainly fall well down the pecking order.
The 26-year-old has made just four appearances this season, and the seemingly imminent arrival of Ghoulam could make it hard for the Swede to have any discernible future at St James’ Park.
