- Newcastle United owner ‘obsessed’ with young talent
- Rebuild under Eddie Howe set for the summer
- What three players could be signed?
Last week’s meeting with Newcastle United officials appeared to confirm that Eddie Howe will remain in his position as manager, but significant changes are expected at the club as part of the ongoing rebuild.
The i Paper reports that Black and White owner Yasir Al-Rumayyan is “obsessed” with player development and youth pathways. The club currently have Lewis Miley as an academy graduate who has broken into the first-team squad, alongside several other promising talents.
With the transfer window around the corner, here are three U21 stars that the Tyneside outfit may look to sign to continue their youth-focused recruitment strategy.
Said El Mala – 1. FC Köln: 19
Arguably one of the most exciting teenage talents in European football right now, Köln’s tricky left winger has already been linked with a move to St James’ Park, along with a host of other Premier League clubs — and for good reason.
In 32 Bundesliga appearances, he has registered 18 goal contributions, despite the Billy Goats hovering near the relegation zone. Without the teenager’s output, there is a strong chance they would be on the brink of relegation heading into the final stages of the campaign.
According to Florian Plettenberg, as reported by Bavarian Football Works, the club are attempting to agree a deal worth more than €40 million – around £35 million – this summer. This is certainly one Howe’s side should consider.
Robin Risser – Lens: 21
With Aaron Ramsdale seemingly set to return to Southampton after his loan spell on Tyneside, and Nick Pope’s future uncertain both in terms of his role as No 1 and his long-term place at the club, Newcastle may need a new shot-stopper — opening the door for Risser.
Similar to the German winger, the French goalkeeper has already been linked with a move to Newcastle ahead of the transfer window opening, though competition could intensify in the coming weeks.
He has made 31 Ligue 1 appearances, keeping 10 clean sheets, as Lens have been involved in a competitive title race with Paris Saint-Germain. A significant fee may be required, particularly with Lens qualifying for the Champions League.
Josh Acheampong – Chelsea: 20
The Chelsea defender turned 20 this past Tuesday, and despite his age, he has already shown his quality at Stamford Bridge, even if opportunities have been limited under several managers.
With Kieran Trippier departing, and Tino Livramento potentially involved in a transfer saga with Arsenal and Manchester City, the England youth international could provide valuable depth while developing into a first-team option.
He is also capable of playing at centre-back. While it is almost certain that a central defender will be high on Newcastle’s shortlist, adding versatility to a Howe side is no bad thing. With Chelsea also expected to be active in the market this summer, Acheampong may feel that the time is right for a change.
In other news, Could returning Newcastle United hotshot replace outbound Anthony Gordon after Ligue 1 stint?
