Report: Newcastle now interested in Argentinian gem with 'magic left foot', he's wanted by Real Madrid
Wow...????
Newcastle United have recruited smartly during Eddie Howe’s reign.
Newcastle, for the most part, have enjoyed success in the transfer market over the last three years since the takeover.
Anthony Gordon, Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes are notable examples, though, the Magpies did struggle in the summer transfer window just gone.
They had to contend with FFP constraints which forced them into selling some of their best young talent, with Eddie Howe left frustrated by Yankuba Minteh’s sale, as well as Elliot Anderson’s.
Newcastle also failed to bring in a winger, which was a priority position to strengthen for Howe, so evidently there’s unfinished business to be done in the January window.
With that said, a fresh link to a winger in South America has just emerged.
Newcastle interested in Kevin Zenon
According to O Jogo, Newcastle are showing an interest in Boca Juniors wide player Kevin Zenon ahead of the January transfer window.
Zenon, who has been capped by Argentina’s under-23s, has been impressing for Boca this season having contributed to 11 goals in 37 outings.
In fact, so much so, that La Liga giants Real Madrid are also keeping tabs on the 2001-born, who has a £13m release clause in his contract.
TBR reported last month that Liverpool are keeping tabs on Zenon, too, so evidently Newcastle are facing stiff competition for his signature.
Zenon would be an upgrade on Miguel Almiron
Zenon’s statistics show just why Newcastle should sign him.
The 23-year-old ranks in the top two per cent for progressive carries per 90 compared to his positional peers across South America and beyond, per FBref.
Further, Zenon ranks in the top two per cent for progressive passes received, amplifying his terrific movement.
Stats per 90 Kevin Zenon Miguel Almiron Successful take-ons 1.85 1.05 Shot creating actions 3.50 2.72 Progressive carries 3.40 3.30 Passes attempted 40.33 36.89
Miguel Almiron is currently Newcastle’s only left-footed attacker, so it’s obvious they need to find an upgrade on his profile.
Zenon, who has a ‘magic left-foot’ per analyst Ben Mattinson, would certainly be an improvement on the Paraguayan, who could leave Tyneside in January, anyhow.
Fulham considered signing Almiron in the summer and could reignite their interest this winter.
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