How Will This Dutch International Improve Newcastle United’s Attack?

Just as expected, Newcastle United have lost some significant players during the summer. Most of these departures have been attacking players. The lack of attacking threat at the club has been evident to see in the opening four games. After starting out with two back-to-back defeats, the club has only now been able to find feet in the Championship with two wins. Four out of the six goals that they have scored in the league so far have come in one game. Rafa Benitez is clearly not happy with the attacking threat.

Only Dwight Gayle was the major signing in the forward positions, while Georginio Wijnaldum and Andros Townsend have been the major departures. Ayoze Pérez and Gayle have been the preferred attacking players in the opening four games, but the Spaniard has been a major disappointment and his record with Newcastle reads as 10 goals in 74 appearances. Benitez will be more than aware that Newcastle cannot achieve promotion with such returns.

Bas Dost has been a transfer target for Newcastle for quite a while. The club tried to sign him back in January. Now, it is rumoured that Wolfsburg are ready to accept a bid of around €10m. One of the primary reasons for this ‘low’ transfer fee is the contract situation of the player. Dost’s contract runs out in 12 months and he is looking highly unlikely to sign a new deal. As a result, Wolfsburg are ready to cash in on the situation. At 6ft 5ins, Dost has the capability to handle the rigours of English football with ease. The Championship is especially known for being physical and Dost on an average wins 3 aerial duels every game.

Bas Dost came to prominence during the 2014-15 season when he finished the Bundesliga campaign with 16 goals and four assists from just 21 league encounters. He was unable to keep up the impressive scoring rate last season, but it was largely down to lack of game time. He still returned with a healthy eight goals and two assists from 22 appearances. More than his direct contribution in terms of goals, Dost will be much more important in holding the ball up. This will bring others into play and offer Newcastle a different dimension.

Inability to press is one of the few weaknesses in his game. Newcastle, though, will have to fight competition from Aston Villa for his signature.