Spurs unlikely to meet Zaniolo price tag - Sky Sports pundit

Italian football expert Nicky Bandini isn’t sure that Tottenham Hotspur or any other club will meet the price tag on Nicolo Zaniolo’s head.

The Lowdown: Unrealistic price tag

Spurs are still yet to back Antonio Conte financially in the transfer market this month, which could well be down to the fact the Italian manager is yet to commit his future to the club with his contract set to expire in the summer – though they have recently moved to bring in Arnaut Danjuma on a surprise loan deal.

Reports have recently emerged about how Conte could leave at the end of the season, but if Daniel Levy was to put his hand in his pocket and bring in some new signings, things could quickly change.

Another player who is said to be admired by Conte and Spurs is Zaniolo of Roma, with Tottenham said to have lodged a loan offer for the player that was rejected out of hand by the Serie A giants.

The Latest: Zaniolo not looking likely to be on the move

Bandini has admitted live on Sky Sports that it would be surprising if Spurs spent big on Zaniolo, especially after he raised red flags by not turning out for Roma this weekend, despite being called up to the squad.

She said: “I think this weekend is one of those situations – he’s trying to force a move but also perhaps, he’s sort of raising some red flags, he’s the sort of player who will refuse to go to a game which he’s been called up for.

“Everything Mina [Rzouki] said is accurate, he’s a really sort of explosive, powerful player who can be very impressive, but strangely for Roma, he really hasn’t turned that into numbers, hasn’t really turned that into goals, hasn’t turned that into assists.

“So I’m sort of with Mourinho that that expectation that someone’s going to put €35-40m this transfer window seems unlikely, but he’s got potential, he really has got potential to be special.”

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The Verdict: This is a deal Spurs should avoid

While Conte will be desperate for reinforcements this month, bringing in someone who has had two ACL injuries in recent times and is failing to impress or even put the effort into his club at present is perhaps not the ideal recruit.

With a price tag going all the way up to around $40m (£35m), it would be a major outlay for Spurs to commit to, so it’s no surprise that they’re instead keen on an initial loan deal so they can see how he adapts to the Premier League and if his body can cope with it.

Zaniolo is still very young and clearly has potential, as Bandini highlighted, but his shocking injury record and lack of goal involvements this season will be huge red flags that Conte and Levy must assess before throwing money at Roma just for the sake of bringing in a new body.

Tottenham: Pickford ‘one to look out for’

Tottenham Hotspur’s pursuit of Jordan Pickford is ‘one to look out for’ in the summer, according to Sky Sports reporter Michael Bridge.

The Lowdown: Lloris past it?

Hugo Lloris has been a vital player for Tottenham since arriving at the club in 2012, making 442 appearances in a Spurs shirt, but he has recently received criticism for some poor performances.

Graeme Souness slammed the Frenchman after the New Year’s Day defeat to Aston Villa by declaring that he is ‘past his sell-by date’, while Jamie Carragher labelled him a ‘liability’ live on Sky Sports after the recent 4-2 defeat at Manchester City.

As such, the Lilywhites now appear to be thinking about a long-term replacement for the 36-year-old…

The Latest: Pickford in Levy’s sights

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT, Bridge claimed that Tottenham chairman Daniel Levy could capitalise on a poor season from Everton in order to sign Pickford.

The reporter said: “I think if Everton get relegated, Daniel Levy would like the England goalkeeper, maybe as an option. People throw names at me and I don’t think I’d rule anyone out at this stage, I think they will all be considered, so it’s one to look out for in the summer.”

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The Verdict: Get it done?

Hailed as ‘outstanding’ by Micky Gray, the 50-cap England international has usually shone for his country and was particularly impressive at Euro 2021, a tournament in which he picked up two more clean sheets than any other goalkeeper.

While Everton have had a very disappointing 2022/23 campaign, their ‘keeper has prevented them from finding themselves in an even more perilous position, displaying that he is a big-game player with an incredible performance against Liverpool in September.

The 28-year-old was handed a remarkable 9.2 match rating by Sofascore for a display in which he made a total of seven saves from inside the penalty box, helping to seal what could prove to be an important point at the end of the season.

Given his age, Pickford could be first choice between the sticks for several years to come, and if the Toffees are relegated, then a move to Tottenham is likely to be a very attractive proposition for him so that he can continue playing top-flight football.

Wolves: Djed Spence is a Semedo upgrade

Wolverhampton Wanderers have enjoyed an excellent January transfer window so far, bringing in players such as Pablo Sarabia and Matheus Cunha, with Joao Gomes soon set to join them, whilst allowing Goncalo Guedes to leave on loan following an underwhelming first half of the season, scoring just twice in 18 games.

Julen Lopetegui might be keen on another one or two last-minute deals, especially with the Old Gold requiring at least one defender, and this could prompt the Spaniard into action yet again.

The right-back area has been a particular problem this season, with Nelson Semedo underperforming on a regular basis, and this may be a position that the manager looks to strengthen before the transfer deadline tomorrow night.

Wolves have been linked with Tottenham Hotspur right-back Djed Spence this month according to The Mirror (08/01, page 77; via Molineux News), and they may have a glimmer of hope when it comes to potentially securing a move for the young defender.

Speaking to GIVEMESPORT regarding the 22-year-old, Dean Jones claimed that the Spurs ace simply has to secure a loan move away from north London before the deadline.

The transfer insider said: “I know that there are three or four other clubs that are interested in that. Djed Spence, almost certainly, has to move.”

Wolves could certainly bolster their squad by sealing a loan move for Spence, who would surely gain substantially more game-time with Lopetegui than he has done under Antonio Conte this term.

The 22-year-old has played a grand total of four matches in the Premier League this season (all as a late substitute), failing to climb the pecking order at Spurs, and the £25k-per-week gem needs a move to prevent his career from stagnating.

Dubbed a “Rolls-Royce” by Martin Keown for his performances in the Championship with Nottingham Forest last season, the right-back played an integral part in their promotion to the Premier League.

Across 42 appearances for Forest, he registered seven goal contributions during his loan spell while making one key pass per game, creating six big chances and taking 0.6 shots per match, underlining his attacking threat from a right-back role.

Compare this to Semedo’s statistics from last season and it’s clear that Spence could be a much better option for Lopetegui on the right of the Wolves defence. The 29-year-old Portugal full-back managed just one goal contribution in 25 appearances and created only one big chance, averaging 0.7 key passes per match.

Spence could be a cheap option on a loan deal who would do a solid job until the summer, when Lopetegui could comprehensively explore the market and bring in a long-term solution at right-back. With the Spurs player seemingly needing to secure a move, Wolves could swoop in with a late offer and end their transfer window with a bang in the process.

Crystal Palace want Anthony Elanga loan

Journalist Dean Jones has revealed he was shocked to learn that Crystal Palace could try and sign Anthony Elanga on loan on transfer deadline day.

What’s the word?

With the final hours of the winter window now upon us, it looks as though the Eagles will end the day having completed an exciting move for one Premier League player.

Indeed, Arsenal midfielder Albert Sambi Lokonga has all but been confirmed as a loan signing for Palace but it looks as though the club are trying to get another deal done, having also welcomed Naouirou Ahamada from Stuttgart.

And while speaking on the Ranks FC deadline day podcast, despite there being no strong links, Jones explained that a source of his at the south London club said the Manchester United man was a loan target.

He explained: “I checked in with one of my contacts that knows Palace very well.

“I said to him, what’s going on at Palace, mate, should I expect anything? Literally expecting just, ‘Yeah, Lokonga’.

“And he was like, ‘Yeah, so Elanga…’

“I was like, Sorry, what? Elanga? Elanga?

“And he’s like, ‘Yeah, they’re asking the question of Elanga. They’re not sure if Man United are going to let him out or not but I’ve asked.’

“And I was like, oh, I like that. That a proper deadline-day signing, isn’t it? Zaha is injured so you sign Elanga.”

Good move?

Interestingly, journalist Sami Mokbel had actually spoken about Palace chasing one more Premier League loan signing on deadline day after Lokonga – and it now looks as though Elanga was that man.

Seeing as Wilfried Zaha is currently out injured with a suspected hamstring injury, it would have made sense for the club to consider a late swoop in the market to bolster that position.

Elanga could have been a decent option in that role, too. After all, while he isn’t a regular starter for United, he has still been trusted enough to play 20 times in all competitions for United this season – delivering two assists in this time.

Interestingly enough, Everton were also said to be potentially considering the player as an option after the sale of Anthony Gordon, so the chances of the Eagles landing him in the closing hours were always going to be slim, but Sky Sports News (31/01, 21:19) claimed Manchester United had suggested that they had no intention of letting Elanga leave.

Villa could still sign Matteo Guendouzi

Aston Villa could still look to complete the signing of Marseille midfielder Matteo Guendouzi in the summer transfer window, expert Dean Jones has claimed.

The Lowdown: Guendouzi linked with Villa move

The Frenchman was strongly linked with a move to Villa Park throughout January as reports even claimed a contract offer was made to the player, as Unai Emery eyed up a former student to reinforce his midfield.

In the end, Guendouzi ended up staying put at Marseille, however, where he has made a total of 20 appearances in Ligue 1 so far this season.

The 23-year-old could depart at the end of the season, though, and Villa could be hovering once again when that time arrives.

The Latest: Summer transfer on the cards?

Speaking to Give Me Sport, transfer insider Jones claimed that Villa’s interest in the former Arsenal man could resurface in the summer:

“It wouldn’t surprise me if the link came back onto the radar.

“I’d say it also depends how Marseille’s season plays out. I think they had a reasonably good transfer window themselves, and it might be quite an exciting place for him to be.”

The Verdict: Could be a strong option

Guendouzi is someone who could represent an excellent option for Villa moving forward, as he continues to mature as a footballer all the time.

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During his Arsenal days he was still very young and immature, but he is now a key figure for one of France’s leading teams, averaging an 88.8% pass completion rate and 1.2 tackles per game in the league this season, showing both sides to his game.

Guendouzi has been hailed for his ‘contagious’ approach and incredible attitude by Jorge Sampaoli in the past, not to mention making one appearance for France at the 2022 World Cup, and he should be coming into his best years now.

Fresh blood is required in Villa’s midfield, in order to ensure it doesn’t stagnate with the same players in it year after year, and the Marseille leader can be that man to come in and add quality and bite alongside compatriot Boubacar Kamara.

Southampton eyeing Jesse Marsch

Southampton’s proud position among England’s elite is in danger of shattering like glass, with the Saints bottom of the Premier League and without a manager for the second time in four months.

What’s new regarding Southampton’s manager hunt?

Jesse Marsch was recently relieved of his duties at Leeds United, with the Whites boasting just four league victories all season and consequently just one point above the relegation zone.

However, according to The Athletic, the 49-year-old may be handed a swift reintroduction to the Premier League stage, with Southampton reported to hold a “long-standing interest” in the American which pre-dates Sport Republic’s initial arrival at St Mary’s 13 months ago.

With Nathan Jones sacked after just 14 matches in charge, the Saints need to find the perfect replacement in short time, currently rooted to the foot of the table and four points from safety.

Is Jesse Marsch the right fit?

Jones achieved success at Luton Town, but seven defeats from sense of alienation with much of the fanbase, left him with little chance of replicating his good fortunes from Kenilworth Road.

Despite excelling in domestic cup competitions, beating Manchester City in the Carabao Cup and through to the last 16 of the FA Cup, where fourth-tier Grimsby Town await, the Saints are probably in their most precarious position since returning to the top flight in 2012.

After Ralph Hasenhuttl lost his place at the helm earlier this season, Jones was duly snapped up from the Hatters, but league progress has been devoid of substance on his brief watch, so Sport Republic must get the next appointment right.

Failure to appoint a suitable replacement would likely result in relegation in the new owners’ first full season in charge, despite spending roughly £128m since the summer.

While it did not quite work out for Marsch at Leeds, there were promising signs of a good team spirit during his tenure, and his dismissal after less than a year in the job is not wholly indicative of his calibre, or indeed his suitability for the project at St Marys.

The aforementioned report from The Athletic suggests that Marsch would be a good fit for this Southampton team, with his philosophy holding semblance to Hasenhuttl’s due to their shared former affiliation with the Red Bull sporting project in central Europe.

Daily Echo correspondent Alfie House took an optimistic view on the prospective appointment, tweeting: “If Jesse Marsch is to be the next Southampton manager, I think the personnel is there to suit him.”

With the spectre of relegation lurking just around the corner, Southampton CEO Martin Semmens will be anxious to get this appointment right, and Marsch could implement a high-octane, vertical emphasis which could excite the club’s hierarchy, with imposing January signing Paul Onuachu perhaps one to ostensibly prosper from such a setup.

Hope can also be taken from Marsch’s initial impact in Yorkshire; a run of ten points from his first six games ultimately proved pivotal in Leeds surviving relegation on the final day of the 2021/22 season. Under his management, Southampton could look to emulate the bounce which came in tandem with his arrival at Elland Road.

The Saints must act swiftly and with conviction if they are to salvage their season and repel the imminent and looming threat of relegation. By hiring Marsch, Hasenhuttl’s once-prosperous tactical blueprint – now dusty and neglected in Hampshire – could be utilised once again.

Leeds: Gnonto had a nightmare vs Everton

Leeds United suffered their second consecutive defeat this afternoon against relegation rivals Everton at Goodison Park, and the Elland Road hierarchy will be feeling the pressure as the club fell into the relegation zone following the 1-0 loss.

The Whites are now 19th in the Premier League table after handing Everton all three points to help them move out of the bottom three, and they now find themselves two points deep in the relegation zone ahead of their clash against Southampton next weekend.

Despite having equal possession with their opponents (50%), Leeds failed to register a single shot on target and had fewer shots on goal (8 v 15), fewer accurate passes (266 v 290) and lost possession of the ball 174 times, all contributing to their uninspiring performance on Merseyside.

With so much at stake in this must-win clash for both teams, the game got off to a nervous start at Goodison Park, with neither team offering too much to worry about in the final third as they tried to scope each other out. It amounted to nothing more than missed opportunities and two yellow cards for Leeds, with Tyler Adams and Weston McKennie booked.

It was much of the same in the opening minutes of the second half, but travelling Leeds fans had their worst fears confirmed when Everton captain Seamus Coleman found the net in the 64th minute, a goal which was enough for Sean Dyche’s team to claim all three points in the relegation six-pointer.

Skubala will be frustrated following the disappointing defeat as several players failed to step up with their performances, with breakout star Wilfried Gnonto putting on one of his worst performances in a white shirt since joining Leeds last year.

How did Gnonto play against Everton?

It is no secret that Gnonto has been one of the standout performers in the team over the season so far despite the troubles that the club have faced, scoring four times in 15 games for Leeds, but today’s display against Everton was one that the talented teenager will want to forget fast.

Indeed, Beren Cross labelled it ‘the quietest display he has produced since breaking into the team’ in his player ratings piece for Leeds Live, awarding the youngster a paltry 4/10.

During his 90 minutes on the pitch, the 19-year-old – who was “struggling” according to journalist Leon Wobschall – had fewer touches of the ball (48) than goalkeeper Illan Meslier (59), lost eight duels and failed to complete 100% of his crosses, along with having no shots on goal and losing possession of the ball 18 times.

Gnonto’s nightmare against the Toffees is a testament to how desperate Leeds will be to appoint a permanent manager who can bring some identity back into the West Yorkshire club in their remaining 15 league fixtures.

The week ahead will be monumental for the powerbrokers at Elland Road in their pursuit of a new head coach, with it being almost a fortnight since Jesse Marsch’s sacking and a simply must-win clash at home to Southampton, who had an impressive win at Chelsea today, coming up next Saturday.

Alex Crook claims Qataris favourites for Man United takeover

Alex Crook believes that the interested Qatari group are now the favourites to purchase Manchester United.

The Lowdown: Deadline is looming

The Raine Group – who are assisting the sale of Man United – have set a soft deadline of 10 pm this evening for interested parties to register their bids and interest in taking Man United off of the Glazers’ hands.

There are said to be several interested parties in buying Man United with groups from both Qatar and Saudi Arabia being linked as well as the Red Devils fan himself, Sir Jim Ratcliffe.

It has been reported that the Qatari group are going to indeed bid for Man United at some point today which could well put a marker down as to whether or not other interested groups can compete financially with them.

The Latest: Qatari group favourites

Crook has been speaking on TalkSPORT about the interest from Qatar and how they are now firmly favourites to buy Man United given their sheer wealth.

He said: (0:30) “You mentioned Sir Jim Ratcliffe, he was the first really to come out publicly and say that he wanted to buy the club, we’re expecting a big-money bid from Qatar to come in today as well.

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“I say big-money, I don’t think it will meet the Glazer family’s £6 billion valuation I think it will be less than that so it’ll be interesting but I think a lot of people who are showing an interest and a lot of people who are maybe considering a bid do believe the Qataris are favourites just because of the sheer volume of wealth in that country.

“I think what’s important to stress is this is a private group of individuals we know the emir of Qatar is actively encouraging people to invest in football clubs following the success of the World Cup at the end of last year but it is a separate company from that who own Paris Saint-Germain.

“That’s crucial because under UEFA rules you can’t own two clubs who compete in the same competition so I would make the Qataris favourites.”

The Verdict: Huge moment in Man United’s history

Given the constant protests and discontent towards the Glazers, if they can attract a number of potential bidders by 10 pm this evening it would be a huge moment in the history of Man United as they may well get their club back.

However, if they were to be taken over by either a group from Qatar or Saudi Arabia it would indeed bring up a huge number of issues including human rights violations that were also fired the way of Newcastle United during their takeover process.

The deadline of 10 pm this evening forces parties to show their hands and prove they’re serious about buying the club and allows the Red Devils to get a deal ironed out prior to the summer transfer window opening.

Man Utd could’ve signed Liverpool teenager in 2020

Manchester United haven’t been shy in splashing out millions for players over the previous few years.

The likes of Jadon Sancho (£73m), Bruno Fernandes (£68m) and Harry Maguire (£80m) all arrived at Old Trafford for massive fees, with only Fernandes standing out as value for money.

Ole Gunnar Solskjaer spent millions trying to rejuvenate United and restore the club to the level they were at under Sir Alex Ferguson, yet his reign ended without winning a trophy while costing the club a fortune in players who couldn’t quite live up to the high expectations.

It wasn’t only big-money signings the club had shockers on, with Solskjaer missing out on current Premier League sensation Stefan Bajcetic back in 2020.

Did Stefan Bajcetic nearly join Man Utd?

The teen starlet made the move from Celta Vigo to Liverpool back in 2020, however, Manchester United had the chance to secure the youngster but missed out.

His father, Srdan Bajcetic, revealed that the Old Trafford side were a potential destination for the player, saying: “Some scouts from Liverpool saw him and contacted us. But Stefan was still a child, not even 16 years old. He couldn’t go anywhere.

“At first, Liverpool told us that they couldn’t do it and then United called us, [saying] that they could. Liverpool found out and contacted us again to sign him. Celta does not have the financial power to [offer] professional contracts at that age. Sometimes [the young players] leave.”

How is Stefan Bajcetic doing now?

United’s loss has turned out to be a major gain for the Anfield side, with Bajcetic emerging into one of their brightest sparks following the resumption of the domestic season at the end of last year.

The 18 year old has played seven league matches this term and although a Sofascore rating of 6.71/10 maybe doesn’t place him near the top of the Liverpool ratings this term, his emergence into the first team has added something extra to the clubs midfield.

The Spaniard has contributed well both in an attacking sense while chipping in with a mature approach to the defensive side of the game. Across the seven games, Bajcetic has scored once, averaged 0.6 key passes while also taking 0.6 shots per game while making one tackle and 0.9 interceptions along with winning 47% of his duels.

Following his performance against Everton a few weeks ago, Statman Dave said the midfielder “looked right at home in the midfield” and it is evident that Klopp has a genuine superstar in the making.

Would he have had the same opportunity at such a young age had he made the move to United? Who knows. But it is fair to say that United had an absolute howler in missing out on the teen sensation, especially with his recent rise to prominence.

Who is Newcastle United’s best current player?

Since their newly discovered riches came to the fore, it’s become far easier to rank Newcastle United’s best players. The Magpies have already undergone an impressive transition, going from the relegation battle to a battle for European football and a Carabao Cup final. 

Signings such as Bruno Guimarães proved to be an instant hit at St James’ Park, which always seemed likely to be the case as soon as Arsenal failed in their pursuit of the Brazilian midfielder. Meanwhile, the likes of Joelinton became reborn in one of the most unexpected transitions in Premier League history, with the struggling striker suddenly becoming an effective box-to-box midfielder.

With that said, we’ve had a go at ranking Newcastle United’s current best players.

10) Nick Pope

Newcastle goalkeeper Nick Pope celebrating.

One of Newcastle’s best signings since the takeover, Pope has been integral to the way Newcastle have been able to rise up the league table.

It was telling that they were beaten by Manchester United in the Carabao Cup final after Pope was suspended, with Loris Karius forced to deputise.

Still, the England international has kept plenty of clean sheets this season and has been absolutely vital to the way Eddie Howe wants to play.

A superb piece of business.

9) Joe Willock

Joe Willock may not have been able to repeat the stunning goal scoring form of his original loan spell, but he still impressed at times last season, handing him a place in this list.

Of course, the former Arsenal man will be hoping for more consistency, but 29 Premier League appearances in the last campaign proves that Howe trusts him.

Indeed, he has stayed in the side even with Newcastle’s investment, making over 20 league appearances already.

8) Dan Burn 

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The first of three January signings on this list, Dan Burn has proven to be a superb addition to the Newcastle side.

He has played a large part in their transition away from the relegation zone last season, making 16 appearances in all competitions.

The big defender may not have been the poster boy that some had dreamed of, but he was certainly the one that was needed at St James’ Park in January.

This season, he has even thrived at left wing-back.

7) Fabian Schär

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Often overlooked, Fabian Schär adds calm to what was occasionally a storm within Newcastle’s backline last season.

And even as the Magpies keep on progressing, the defender should remain a mainstay.

He will be well aware of how important it is to remain consistent, as competition for places increases more and more.

This season, he has remained one of the first names on the team sheet.

6) Alexander Isak

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Isak was snapped up as the poster boy of the newly-minted Newcastle. 

The club spent well over £50m to sign the Sweden international and he already looks to be the real deal.

Isak has scored three goals in seven games in the Premier League at the time of writing and we expect him to keep scoring goals.

Howe has a potential diamond on his hands; Isak is still only 23.

5) Joelinton 

If you told Premier League fans that Joelinton – the striker who looked destined to enter the flop pile – would become one of the most effective box-to-box midfielders in the country, then jaws would have dropped.

But here we are; here Joelinton is, and here Eddie Howe is, having implemented his masterpiece to perfection.

The Brazilian is now a fixture on the team-sheet, bringing his pace and power to bear in midfield duels.

It’s been an incredible tactical switch.

4) Callum Wilson 

Under Howe, Callum Wilson was always going to perform, even throughout a period of frustration stemming from injury.

The Englishman netted eight goals in 18 appearances last season, and has continued to score at a consistent rate, even with the signing of Isak.

This season, Wilson has seven league goals to his name already.

When fully fit, Wilson is a handful for most defenders.

3) Kieran Trippier 

As the first signing in Newcastle’s new era, Kieran Trippier had to perform.

And, in fairness to the fullback, he did exactly that, before an injury brought his season to an abrupt end. 

Back fit come August, the former Atletico Madrid man has played a crucial part in the Magpies’ lofty ambitions.

A shrewd signing, and one that has set the tone.

2) Bruno Guimarães

The Bruno Guimarães transfer perfectly sums up the difference between Newcastle a year ago vs now.

The attraction to the Magpies is sky-high nowadays, whether that be for money, or what that money could bring.

And Guimarães is a big part of that. At 24, the midfielder is entering his prime, too, and will play an increasingly important role at St James’ Park.

This season, he’s been vital to the way they’ve played, emerging as one of the best midfielders in the country.

1) Allan Saint-Maximin 

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As tricky as ever, Allan Saint-Maximin remains, in our opinion, Newcastle United’s best player.

As he continues to enjoy extra quality around him, too, the Frenchman will only continue to thrive more and more.

And, with that improvement, we could see his end product sky-rocket in the coming Premier League season.

Thus far, he’s not actually been used as much by Eddie Howe, but he remains an unbelievable footballer, with one goal and three league assists to his name.

So, there you have it,  our current top 10 Newcastle players. Of course, that could dramatically change in a year or so, given how much is likely to change when it comes to personnel at St James’ Park across the next two transfer windows. 

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