Why Newcastle United should reignite their interest in Lovro Majer
Back in June 2018, a report from Calciomercato (h/t Chronicle Live) confirmed that Newcastle United offered £10m plus bonuses for Croatian wonderkid Lovro Majer.
Former Newcastle manager, Rafa Benitez intended to lure the youngster to St. James’ Park but eventually, the deal fell through and Majer joined Dinamo Zagreb from Lokomotiva Zagreb in July that year.
Majer, 21, progressed through the youth ranks of Lokomotiva and made his HNL debut in 2016. In 53 league appearances for Lokomotiva, he scored 14 goals and chalked up 16 assists for the team. The Croatian then made a switch to cross-town rivals Dinamo.
In 8 league games this season, Majer has assisted thrice and is yet score. The youngster is among the hottest talents and has the potential to become a great player. As a result of his impressive displays, he has gained Newcastle’s attention.
The Magpies are currently 14th in the Premier League standings, after an impressive draw against Manchester City last weekend. They started the season with back-to-back losses and since then, have registered only 4 wins.
They have lacked the intensity while moving forward, with Allan Saint-Maximin the only one who seems to be doing well at the moment. However, he hasn’t scored yet. Their forwards – Joelinton, Saint-Maximin and Miguel Almiron have accounted for just one goal in the league.
This is a worrisome factor for Steve Bruce, who certainly has his work cut out at the moment. And this is where Croatian starlet Lovro Majer can be a powerful addition to the squad.
A central midfielder, who can play as a No.10 or in a withdrawn No.8 role, Majer has all the necessary traits to develop into a world-class midfielder. He might not construct the play but can score at a decent rate.
Speaking of attacking midfielders, Newcastle have just one – Almiron. The Paraguayan is mostly deployed on the right wing and the Magpies don’t have someone in the middle to move in accordance with the forward line.
The Croatian can easily slot in behind Joelinton to support the forward. Therefore, he could be the much-needed extra edge that the Magpies have lacked.
The Zagreb-born midfielder would be a great asset in Steve Bruce’s squad. Though it may take time for him to settle, Majer could prove to make a difference in Newcastle’s dull season given his ability and understanding of the game.
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Verdict
Premier League heavyweights back in the days, the Magpies have not been able to compete for a top-six finish in the past few years. Despite several changes and reinforcements, Newcastle have lacked the determination to succeed.
If the club intend to make amends for the lack of scoring, they must reignite their interest in the starlet and see that he joins their ranks in January, and they must act quickly.