talkSPORT, are never normally known for hyperbole (/sarcasm), so when I say the headline ‘Is this 22-year-old the next INCREDIBLE bargain buy at Newcastle’, it made me sit up and take notice. Were they exaggerating for effect, or are the Magpies on the verge of a genuinely exciting signing.
Of course, they’re referring to the fact that Alan Pardew, since joining Newcastle, has earned a reputation for unearthing gems and signing some fantastic players at bargain price. Papiss Cisse, Newcastle’s big signing last January is just the latest example. If the Magpies can secure another bargain signing on that level, it’ll improve the team significantly.
Without further ado, the man in question is Molde’s Jo Inge Berget. Molde are the Champions of the Norwegian League and are currently managed by Manchester United legend Ole Gunnar Solskjaer.
Berget himself is just 22-years-old, but has already earned a real reputation in Norway and further afield. He’s an attacking midfielder and a striker, who’s known for his technical ability and his flair on the ball. He’s earned the nickname, ‘Torres’, because he bears some physical similarities to the Spaniard and some footballing similarities too. If Newcastle do push through this signing, fans will surely be hoping that he’s more like the Torres that showed up at Liverpool, rather than the one currently plying his trade for Chelsea.
Whilst he’s young and has a good deal of potential, I’d be keen to temper talkSPORT’s unbridled optimism. He has thus far only earned one call-up for the Norwegian International team and has yet to be tested in one of Europe’s top leagues. Just to be clear: I think he’s a top player, with a big future, but I don’t think it’s healthy to level such a degree of expectation on young shoulders. Jo Inge Berget still has a lot to prove.
That said, I hope Alan Pardew snaps him up. He was a vital part of Molde’s Championshi winning side and has a rather appealing dynamism and energy to his game. So he may not be the INCREDIBLE, bargain signing of the next transfer window, but he may end up being an extremely smart purchase.
What’s your take? Would Jo Inge Berget be a good addition at St James’ Park?
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Newcastle don’t do their bidding in public so I doubt they are any further than having a look at him.
The one thing I have heard is they are planning to spend some money, and January will be the most they have spent to date.
Harry, your just like every other fan I speak to. When have you ever seen this player apart from a few clips on You Tube?
There are few clips that make Shola Ameobi look a Great deal better than he is.
You hope we sign him! Why?