Why Ben Davies would be a good addition to Newcastle United

Back in July, the Lancashire Live had claimed that Newcastle United wanted to sign Preston North End defender Ben Davies. However, a deal didn’t go through during the summer transfer window.

Ben Davies, 24, had an impressive 2018/19 Championship campaign, playing in 40 games across all competitions under Alex Neil at Preston North End. Still very much at the start of his career, he is one of the Championship’s best up-and-coming defenders.

If the opportunity is there to get Davies through the St James’ Park door in January, Steve Bruce would be wise to try and get a deal done.

Apart from the shock 1-0 victory over Tottenham, Newcastle have struggled under Bruce so far this season. They surprised everyone by taking the lead at Anfield last weekend but Liverpool eventually came on top, winning the contest 3-1.

Despite splashing big on the likes of Joelinton and Allan Saint-Maximin, the Magpies have struggled to score goals. It’s one of Bruce’s biggest concerns and he must quickly find a solution before time runs out for him.

Also, Newcastle have looked shaky at the back even with a defensive system. Bruce has shuffled between 5-4-1 and 3-5-2 system at St. James’ Park and neither of those has worked, with the Magpies yet to keep a clean sheet.

Interestingly, the Magpies are, on paper, strong enough at the heart of the defence with the likes of Jamaal Lascelles, Fabian Schar, Ciaran Clarke, Paul Dummett, Florian Lejeune and Federico Fernandez already on the books. However, Bruce has played with three defenders and he’ll need depth in that area should any injury takes place.

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That’s why signing Ben Davies would make sense. One of the exciting defensive talents in the Championship, Davies flourishes as a central defender using his combination strength, power and technique.

He is left-footed and more than adept at playing on the left side of the defence, too. No stranger to pacey and physical football, he’ll thrive in the Premier League.

Verdict

At the age of 24, Davies is perhaps at the right age to take the next big step in his career. And a move to St. James’ Park would be really good for him if Newcastle come calling during the mid-season trade period.

Not only will he add quality but also depth and much-needed competition to the Magpies’ squad.