Why Newcastle United should sign Yohan Cabaye on a free transfer
According to a report in Chronicle Live, former Newcastle United midfielder Yohan Cabaye is available on a free transfer in this month’s transfer window after leaving UAE club Al Nasr. The Frenchman arrived at the United Arab Emirates in the summer on a two-year deal from Crystal Palace, but Al Nasr have on Sunday announced that they have paid immediate farewell to the player.
It means that the 32-year-old, who scored twice in 19 appearances this season, can sign for any club for free. And as per the report, many Newcastle fans are excited by this news and want the club to re-sign the midfielder.
The Frenchman was a part of the Magpies team between 2011 and 2014, scoring 18 goals in 93 appearances in all competitions. He was a part of the squad that finished fifth in the Premier League during the 2011/12 season under Alan Pardew.
Here’s why Newcastle should contemplate on getting the midfielder back to St. James’ Park this month:
Cabaye’s experience and quality could be key
Having already been a part of the Newcastle family before, Yohan Cabaye will take less time to settle in at the club this time if he is offered a chance to make a comeback. After leaving the Magpies in 2014, the Frenchman played a few games for Ligue 1 giants Paris-Saint Germain and came back to the Premier League to ply his trade for Crystal Palace.
Hence, as a whole, the 32-year-old possesses the experience of playing football at the highest level in different leagues. Moreover, the 172 appearances in England’s top-flight league means he would know how the game is played in this corner of the world.
Newcastle have been struggling for form this season under Rafa Benitez, partly down to the lack of quality and experience they have in the squad (with due respect to all the players). This is where someone like Cabaye could be an ideal addition to their group.
The French star is a versatile midfield player who can play as an attacking midfielder or as a pivot. The Magpies are short on options in central midfield, especially after the departure of Ki-Sung Yueng to South Korea for the Asian Cup.
And Benitez doesn’t really seem to trust Jonjo Shelvey. Hence, we saw a midfield duo of Isaac Hayden and young Sean Longstaff against Chelsea.
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This situation is not ideal for a team who are fighting for every point they can get this season. Cabaye could be of great help. The move is good for the club as they do not need to spend any transfer fee to get the player.