Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez has been in touch with Club Brugge striker Wesley Moraes and his representatives over a potential move to St James’ Park this summer, according to the Chronicle.
The newspaper claim on their website that the 22-year-old, who stands at a giant 6’3″ tall (source: Transfermarkt) has been in contact with the Newcastle boss and that he is excited over the prospect of moving to the north east on England.
It is stated that the hitman, who goes by Wesley and is said to have a £16million asking price on his head, is only keen on moving if Benitez stays in charge this summer, having netted 17 goals across all competitions for his current club.
Good move for Newcastle United?
A new hitman is an absolute must and to have scored 17 goals, including two in the Champions League, is a record which should not be ignored.
He ticks all the boxes – young, powerful and good value for money – for both Benitez and for owner Mike Ashley, who might well be reluctant to sign off on anything before he knows whether he will remain in charge of the Magpies this summer.
If Newcastle can get this one over the line, it would be a real statement of intent, not to mention a boost for the fans who have been forced to watch their club pinch as many pennies as possible for quite some time.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
A lot of things are up in the air right now so it is difficult to say. Yes, Wesley might be keen but Benitez is not yet confirmed as next season’s manager, meaning their pursuit could be for nothing if the Spaniard does leave.
Likewise, there is no knowing whether Ashley will be here next month, making transfer deals an impossibility right now.
Too many variables mean this hangs in the balance – there should be some clarity in the near future though.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10