Newcastle United are unlikely to accept loan bids for out-of-favour striker Aleksandar Mitrovic amid reported interest from Partizan Belgrade, according to the Chronicle.
It is claimed that the Magpies will only accept a deal for Mitrovic that would help Rafa Benitez find a replacement for the striker, preferably a cash transfer.
A straight loan deal would not be accepted, but a structured one with potential for a permanent deal at the end may be.
Mitrovic has found himself left out of Rafa Benitez’s plans at St. James’ Park this season, with the Serbian international making just five appearances so far.
Despite managing two goals in those five games, the 23-year-old still remains on the outside at Newcastle, with summer signing Joselu preferred up front.
Good move for Newcastle United?
It is absolutely essential that any move to let Mitrovic leave St. James’ Park is beneficial to the club. Newcastle are not in a position to be letting players, especially strikers, leave the club on loan.
While the Serbian has not been part of Benitez’s plans, he is still important for the club as he represents a good opportunity to raise funds for January transfers.
Mitrovic is still only 23, and his potential could see him leave the club for a decent fee.
However, Newcastle fans may be wondering if it is wise to let him leave the club at all. The Serbian’s goalscoring record, while not the best recently, still outshines most other options on Tyneside.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10
Likely to happen?
The reported interest from Partizan Belgrade is interesting, as Mitrovic previously played for the club as before his move to Anderlecht in 2013.
However, Partizan are unlikely to be able to offer a significant fee for Mitrovic, and Newcastle may be forced to accept a structured loan deal.
It does seem certain that Mitrovic is out of Benitez’s plans, so a move away looks likely, but it is yet to be seen where that will be or under what terms it occurs.
This is Futbol rating: 7/10