According to reports, Newcastle United are set to rival newly-promoted Premier League outfit Fulham in the race to sign Jordan Ayew from Swansea City this summer.
Ayew, 26, was Swansea’s top goalscorer last season with 11 goals in all competitions. 7 of those came in the Premier League but they weren’t enough as the Swans suffered relegation.
Rafael Benitez has a lot of work to do if Newcastle United are to genuinely challenge for a top-six finish next season. More than anything, the Magpies need more firepower up front after the likes of Dwight Gayle and Joselu struggled for consistency this past season. Keeping that in mind, should Benitez try signing Ayew from Swansea?
The Ghanaian was arguably the Swans’ standout player last season and his versatility would be a big bonus for Newcastle should they get him. Although Ayew is far from prolific, he would give Benitez more strength in depth and options in attack.
Ayew was one of the very few bright spots in an otherwise dismal campaign for Swansea as he scored 11 goals in all competitions, with the striker impressing with his direct running and pace in attack.
He scored seven goals in 36 Premier League appearances last term which is more than any player in Newcastle’s current squad. It might be an ordinary return but Ayew undoubtedly brings more than just goals to the table.
Ayew uses his diminutive stature to great effect which allows him to control the ball and turn past defenders in a blink of an eye. He is generally not very fast but has the burst of pace needed in a striker. Also, the Ghanaian’s versatility makes him an attractive proposition for Benitez to consider.
Newcastle’s attackers failed to live up to the billing this past season as the Magpies managed just 39 goals in the league. Christian Atsu struggled with multiple injuries last term, while Matt Ritchie blew hot and cold.
Jacob Murphy is yet to prove his worth, following his switch from Norwich last summer. Up front, Newcastle lacked a clinical striker as Gayle, Joselu and on-loan Leicester City’s Islam Slimani all disappointed.
That’s why signing Ayew would be of real significance as he will also provide a different dimension to Newcastle’s attack. With Ayoze Perez behind him in the No.10 role, Ayew would be able to produce more goals for the Magpies. Valued at £13m, Ayew would represent a massive coup for Benitez’s Newcastle this summer.
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