Anderlecht have launched a last-minute bid to bring Newcastle United striker Aleksandar Mitrovic back to the club, according to a reliable journalist.
Lee Ryder, chief sports writer at the Chronicle, reported on Twitter on Tuesday morning that the Belgian top-flight side were trying to sign their former striker in an last-ditch move.
Ryder claims that Newcastle will not let Mitrovic leave unless they have a replacement lined up for the Serbia international, who has been massively out of favour at St. James’ Park this season.
Anderlecht trying to sign Mitrovic in last gasp deal. #nufc have stated they won't let him go unless there is a replacement.
— Lee Ryder (@lee_ryder) January 30, 2018
Mitrovic arrived on Tyneside from Anderlecht in a £16million transfer in 2015, and he has gone on to score 17 goals in 72 appearances for the Magpies.
His record at Anderlecht was much more impressive, netting 44 times in 90 games to nearly average a goal every two matches in Brussels.
Anderlecht currently sit third in the Belgian First Division.
Good move for Newcastle United?
As Ryder states, this would only be a good move for the Magpies if they line up a replacement.
Mitrovic has made just seven appearances in all competitions this campaign, but he will still be needed for the relegation run-in if the club fail to secure any more signings.
The Serbia international is known to want a move away, as he is worried about his place in Serbia’s World Cup squad this summer.
This is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
If the club had managed to secure a deal for Daniel Sturridge, who instead joined West Bromwich Albion, then this one would be likely.
However, the only signing that Rafa Benitez has made so far is Chelsea flyer Kenedy, and a deal for Feyenoord striker Nicolai Jorgensen now looks to be dead in the water as well.
If the club’s disastrous window continues in the next two days, then Mitrovic will no doubt stay on Tyneside for the remainder of the season.
This is Futbol rating: 3/10