OPINION
Newcastle United have somewhat surprisingly been linked with a move for a number of different wingers this summer, and have even got one through the door in the shape of returning favourite Kenedy.
Matt Ritchie’s place at St James’ Park seems to be under threat, and with Christian Atsu and Jacob Murphy hardly setting the flanks alight with their displays, yet more options out wide are needed if Rafael Benitez’s men are to have any sort of cutting edge in attack.
Premier League experience is also a must – something that was lacking during last summer’s recruitment drive – which is why a reported hunt for West Brom’s Matt Phillips fits the bill.
The Daily Mail claim that the Magpies are joined by Premier League rivals Cardiff and north east neighbours Middlesbrough in chasing the 27-year-old forward following the Baggies’ relegation to the Championship, and that there could be a bidding war ignited for his capture.
The report states that it is the Welsh side who are readying an £11million bid for the powerhouse wide man, and if that is the asking price set on his head, Newcastle must brush aside their competitors and take him to Tyneside.
With over 100 top flight appearances under his belt, and 21 assists, he has proven himself to be a solid option, even when playing with a side as lacklustre as West Brom.
Turning out under Rafael Benitez, who would no doubt get the best out of the Scottish international, fans could see a completely different attacker in the shape of Phillips, and at that bargain price, it would not blow the entirety of the Magpies’ limited transfer budget.