OPINION
Newcastle United fans have been tapping their fingers waiting for something to happen during the summer transfer window, and although they might have agreed three deals, they are not going to be getting pulses racing any time soon.
Former Swansea midfielder Ki Sung Yeung is the only ‘new’ arrival at St James’ Park, with Martin Dubravka and Kenedy, who have signed a permanent and loan deal respectively, having both been part of the first team squad during the latter half of last season.
Things need to change quickly for Rafael Benitez, with a centre forward, a new full back and even another central midfielder likely to be among his priorities.
So what about a man who could tick two of those three boxes?
Step forward Manchester City’s Oleksandr Zinchenko, a versatile utility man who has the ability to play both in central midfield and as a pacey left back.
The Magpies have already been linked with the 21-year-old before, journalist Tim Nash naming the Magpies alongside Wolves as potential suitors for his capture earlier in the summer – but the latest report should see Benitez reigniting the hunt.
Zinchenko, 21, is still to decide his future, with Newcastle also in the hunt for the Ukraine international. He wanted to talk to City boss Pep Guardiola after training today before making a decision.
— Tim Nash (@TimNash_1) July 9, 2018
David Anderson, of the Mirror, claims that Wolves have in fact pulled out of the race for Zinchenko, turning attentions to Bristol City’s Joe Bryan instead, and while Newcastle have been linked with the Championship star, it is the Premier League champions’ youngster they should be pouncing for.
Wolves have given up on trying to persuade Manchester City's Oleksandr Zinchenko to join them and are now targeting Bristol City left-back Joe Bryan. Bournemouth, West Ham, Newcastle and RB Leipzig also keen.
— David Anderson (@MirrorAnderson) July 24, 2018
Fast, skilful and with great energy both on and off the ball, Zinchenko is already a 17-cap Ukraine international, and can play anywhere out on the left flank as well as in the middle of the park.
Having him as competition to Paul Dummett as well as a replacement for the departed Mikel Merino kills two birds with one stone, and at 21 he could flourish both under Benitez as well as with regular first team action.