Newcastle United started off their Matthias Jaissle era tonight with a 2-1 win over a 10-man Valencia side. Of course, you rarely see red cards being dished out in pre-season friendlies. That being said, Jose Gaya’s challenge on Anthony Elanga most certainly deserved one.
Fortunately, it looks like Elanga has avoided a serious injury. On the other hand, Newcastle United need to work on strengthening their squad over the coming weeks as we head towards the start of the Premier League season.
The Magpies have lost so much quality this summer. It is going to be almost impossible to replace. But they have to try. And the midfield department is in urgent need of reinforcements.
Bruno Guimaraes’ move to Arsenal has now been made official. Of course, previously this summer, Sandro Tonali had joined their North London rivals, Tottenham Hotspur. That means two of Newcastle United’s best midfielders are gone and need replacing immediately.
Good news for Newcastle United
Things could get even worse from here. Joelinton and Joe Willock are being linked with moves away as well. So much quality and experience has been lost.
Fortunately, it looks like Newcastle United will be trying to replace that for Jaissle, who has his eyes set on a veteran midfielder to strengthen his roster.
According to the Daily Mail, Jaissle wants former Tottenham man Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg to anchor his midfield. A deal with Marseille should progress in the coming days.
This is a positive update. There have been reports suggesting that a £15 million transfer fee could be enough to convince Marseille to part ways with their captain.
Why they need to make Hojbjerg signing
Firstly, Hojbjerg brings proven quality to the table. He has played for Bayern Munich in the past. Also, he has Premier League experience from his time at Southampton and Tottenham Hotspur.
He would be replacing Guimaraes’ leadership as well. At this point in time, Hojbjerg is the captain of Marseille as well as the Denmark national team.
At 31 years of age, many might feel that he is past his prime or at least heading out of it. But he can still bring a lot to this Newcastle United team.
This would not be a signing for the long-term, that is for sure. But it is one that they might badly need to make under the current circumstances.
