Newcastle United have prepared a sensational £40million transfer raid to snap up Hoffenheim striker Joelinton in a bid to keep manager Rafael Benitez at the club, according to the Sun.
The newspaper claim on their website that the Brazilian hitman was on the Magpies’ radar over January but a move never came off with the German side reluctant to let him go without a replacement.
However, with the 22-year-old in fine form it is stated that Newcastle are to table a massive bid to seal his signing come the summer, with hopes that a record breaking transfer deal will be enough to keep the Spaniard on board past the end of his contract, which expires at the end of the season.
Good move for Newcastle?
The Magpies already have a proven hitman in Salomon Rondon and would perhaps be better off spending time and money in getting him to commit to terms of a permanent deal before chasing young Brazilian hitmen.
Joelinton might have been in decent form but translating that to the Premier League is no easy task and 11 goals in 30 appearances across all competitions is hardly groundbreaking for a striker.
Still, a new hitman is a definite this summer and if it keeps Benitez on board then it will be money well spent – so long as he can hit the goal trail, that is.
This is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
Not in the slightest.
With Mike Ashley still not out the door but seeking a takeover there is no way he is going to sanction that sort of money – unless he has has a sudden and shock change of mind.
Keeping Benitez is crucial but there are better ways to do it than splashing out on one striker.
Newcastle fans, do not get too excited.
This is Futbol rating: 2.5/10