Rafa Benitez has revamped Newcastle United in the truest sense of form. They are currently 9th in the league standings and have some strong, yet streamlined attack and defence units. Improvement is definitely on the cards if they continue under Benitez’s watchful eye, but of late, it does seem like they need a new forward to complete their set-up.
Going forward, squad rotation will certainly prove to be a problem for Benitez. As the compeition intensifies, the manager will hope to sign a quality forward in the January transfer window. Knowing Benitez, he is likely to prefer signing a relatively less known player – yet somebody whose capabilities speak a lot. Here’s a look at three forwards Benitez could possibly target in January:
Kramaric spent an unhappy year at Leicester City following a £9m move from Rijeka back in 2015. Before he left Croatia, however, Kramaric netted an astonishing 37 goals in 42 league games for Rijeka. In fact, he is renowned for his finishing ability – a skill that Newcastle desperately need in a striker.
After 15 goals in 34 Bundesliga games for surprise-package Hoffenheim last season, the 26-year-old was targeted by Liverpool and Tottenham Hotspur but nothing materialised. Thus, if Newcastle identify him as a target, the Magpies would almost certainly need to smash their 12-year-old transfer record in order to lure Kramaric from Germany because Hoffenheim will not let him go for cheap.
Compared to Kramaric, the €7m rated Larsson will definitely be a cheaper alternative. The Swedish winger has been in fine form for the Eredivisie club, lighting up the field with his skill, pace, and ability to take on defenders. He may just be 23 years old but Larsson is a very exciting young talent, capable of penetrating even the toughest of defences.
With Newcastle United needing a bit more flair and goal threat on the left-hand side, Sam Larsson can slot right in for Rafa Benitez if he decides to launch an attempt to sign Larsson in January.
The 26-year-old is another striker who has the build needed to succeed in the Premier League. Standing at over 6ft tall, he is powerful in the air, and could be the ideal partner for Dwight Gayle at St. James’ Park.
He also has experience of playing European football, having spent time with Dynamo Kyiv and Bordeaux earlier in his career. Andre Felipe is renowned for his quick feet in and around the box, and would most certainly be a player who would endear himself to the Newcastle faithful.
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