If we could make this one happen, we’d add a world-class talent to right-hand side of Newcastle’s attack
With the stress of the PSR deadline behind them, Newcastle United can now focus on bolstering their squad for the upcoming season. A significant priority for the Magpies is enhancing the right wing position. This focus is logical, especially with Yankuba Minteh’s departure and Miguel Almirón’s potential move to the Saudi Pro-League.
The Hunt for the Right Fit: Key Targets and Comparisons
The club has remained discreet about their transfer targets since the change in ownership, making the speculation around potential signings all the more intriguing. With Eddie Howe at the helm, Newcastle’s transfer strategy has seen numerous credible names linked to the club. Here, we dive into some of the top prospects and offer an additional, albeit ambitious, suggestion.
Jarrod Bowen: West Ham United’s Star Performer
Profile:
- Age: 27
- Market Value: £42 million
- Likely Fee: £50-60 million
- Contract Remaining: 6 years
Jarrod Bowen could have been a Newcastle player in 2020 if not for financial constraints under Mike Ashley. A left-footed right winger, Bowen has been instrumental for West Ham, consistently contributing with goals and assists. Last season, he scored 16 goals and provided 6 assists, surpassing his expected goals (xG) and expected assists (xA) of 17.2.
Bowen’s defensive contributions are noteworthy, with a tackle success rate of 37.1%. However, his dribbling skills, with a take-on success rate of 35.1%, lag behind Almirón. Despite this, his higher frequency of crosses into the box makes him a valuable asset in the final third.
Pros: Goal scoring, defensive contributions, crossing ability
Cons: Dribbling
Raphinha: Barcelona’s Brazilian Technician
Profile:
- Age: 27
- Market Value: £42 million
- Likely Fee: £50 million
- Contract Remaining: 3 years
Raphinha, formerly of Leeds United, has been linked with Newcastle amidst Barcelona’s financial woes. Known for his technical prowess, he registered 6 goals and 9 assists in La Liga last season. His dribbling success rate stands at an impressive 52.2%, making him the best ball handler on this list.
Defensively, Raphinha is less robust, winning only 22.2% of his challenges. Nonetheless, his ability to create chances, exemplified by 5.9 shot-creating actions per game, makes him a significant offensive threat.
Pros: Technical skills, dribbling, chance creation
Cons: Defensive contributions
Federico Chiesa: Juventus’ Versatile Forward
Profile:
- Age: 26
- Market Value: £30 million
- Likely Fee: £30-40 million
- Contract Remaining: 1 year
Federico Chiesa gained prominence during Euro 2020 and continues to impress for both Italy and Juventus. He scored 9 goals and provided 2 assists last season, performing slightly below his combined xG and xA of 11.9. Chiesa’s strength lies in his dribbling, with a success rate of 36.8% for Juventus and over 56% for Italy.
Chiesa’s defensive stats are the lowest among the listed players, but his versatility across the front line and his ability to cross the ball effectively make him an intriguing option.
Pros: Dribbling, versatility, crossing
Cons: Defensive contributions
Bryan Mbeumo: Brentford’s Promising Talent
Profile:
- Age: 24
- Market Value: £33 million
- Likely Fee: £40 million
- Contract Remaining: 2 years
Bryan Mbeumo, who led Brentford’s attack in Ivan Toney’s absence, typically plays on the right wing. He scored 9 goals and provided 6 assists last season, outperforming his xG and xA of 13.3. Mbeumo’s take-on success rate is 33.3%, and he frequently crosses the ball, making him a potential asset for Newcastle.
Defensively, Mbeumo needs improvement, winning only 26.3% of his challenges. However, at 24, his potential for growth under Howe’s coaching is high.
Pros: Goal scoring, crossing, potential for development
Cons: Defensive contributions
Anthony Elanga: Nottingham Forest’s Speedster
Profile:
- Age: 22
- Market Value: £19 million
- Likely Fee: £30+ million
- Contract Remaining: 4 years
Anthony Elanga showed significant development in the second half of last season. He scored 5 goals and provided 9 assists, slightly outperforming his xG and xA of 13.3. Elanga’s take-on success rate matches Chiesa’s at 36.8%, but his crossing numbers are modest.
Elanga’s defensive output is impressive, with a tackle success rate of 47.2%. His speed and versatility on both flanks make him an exciting prospect.
Pros: Speed, defensive contributions, potential
Cons: Goal scoring, final ball quality
Jeremie Frimpong: Bayer Leverkusen’s Dynamic Wing-Back
Profile:
- Age: 23
- Market Value: £42 million
- Likely Fee: £40 million (alleged release clause)
- Contract Remaining: 4 years
Although primarily a right wing-back, Jeremie Frimpong’s attacking prowess makes him a unique option. Last season, he scored 9 goals and provided 7 assists, with an xG and xA of 14. Frimpong excels in dribbling, with a success rate of 45.3%, and is effective in tackles, winning 40% of his challenges.
Frimpong’s versatility would allow him to complement Tino Livramento and provide tactical flexibility. While securing his signature is unlikely, his addition would significantly boost Newcastle’s right wing.
Pros: Dribbling, defensive contributions, versatility
Cons: Positional fit, likelihood of transfer
Newcastle United’s quest for a right wing upgrade is crucial for their ambitions next season. Each player discussed offers unique strengths and potential fits for Eddie Howe’s system.
While some targets like Jarrod Bowen and Raphinha provide proven Premier League experience, others like Bryan Mbeumo and Anthony Elanga offer promising potential. Jeremie Frimpong remains an ambitious but ideal choice, combining defensive solidity with attacking flair.
Securing the right player will be key to enhancing Newcastle’s attacking prowess and achieving their goals in the upcoming season.
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