OPINION
Newcastle United must fuel Fulham’s reported fear that they will lose several players if they suffer relegation from the Premier League by snatching Joe Bryan from them in the summer.
According to the Daily Mail, the Magpies’ Premier League rivals believe that key players could depart their club if they’re set to play in the Championship next season.
Claudio Ranieri’s side look destined for the drop as it stands as they’re eight points off safety, so it’s fair to say that they’re currently heading towards being relegated.
Given that Rafa Benitez’s side were keen on left-back Joe Bryan, according to The Sun, ahead of him joining Fulham, then they should make the Cottagers’ worst nightmare come true.
The 25-year-old flyer has shown glimpses of his talent while playing 17 times for the London club this season, and that’s quite hard to do when you consider how badly they are struggling.
Bryan seems defensively capable, especially compared to some of his Fulham teammates, and has blistering pace to burst up and down the wing.
The left-sided flyer is also capable of playing in midfield which means signing him, would give Rafa Benitez options on how to deploy him best to help the team.
Bryan is the ideal player for the Magpies to snatch from Fulham in the summer not just because of his talent, but because of his potential price and the fact the Magpies need a new left-back.
Benitez’s side need to sign permanent cover for first-choice option Paul Dummett as currently their back-up is Antonio Barreca who is only on loan from Monaco as it stands.
Also Bryan is likely to be available at a reasonable price if Fulham are relegated as they won’t be in a strong position to negotiate given that some of their players, such as the left-back, will be trying to force a move to a Premier League club.