OPINION
It appears as though Newcastle United’s forward line could well have a couple of changes from what fans saw last season – and they will be hoping they can pose more of a threat after seeing some toothless displays up top.
The likes of Dwight Gayle and Joselu were often seen floundering when leading the line, and the arrival of Islam Slimani still failed to bring any cutting edge to the Magpies’ attack.
However, with the confirmed arrival of Yoshinori Muto, things are changing at St James’ Park – and they could be much bigger changes afoot if reports are to be believed.
Football news website Football Whispers, who rank the likelihood of a signing using a multitude of different factors, suggest that Newcastle could well be plotting a swoop for RB Leipzig’s giant striker Yussuf Poulsen, and his arrival would help the club terrorise Premier League defences next season.
Standing at a colossal 6’3″ (source: Transfermarkt), the Danish international is a real handful up top, and although his goal scoring record is nothing special – with just five goals last season – it is the way in which he brings other players into the game which stands him out from among the crowd, having contributed nine assists.
With Muto much more of a poacher, having that physical presence up top would do wonders for him, as well as giving wingers Matt Ritchie and Kenedy a notable presence to aim for in the box.
His arrival at St James’ Park would give Rafael Benitez a different option up top and one which the Magpies could do with having in their arsenal.
He might not be the 20-goal a season striker the Toon Army desperately want, but he would be a great addition to bolster the front line.