Imagine him & Isak: Newcastle target star who’s better than Calvert-Lewin
Following his £60m move to Newcastle United in the summer of 2022, Alexander Isak has proven to be worth every penny, establishing himself as a pivotal figure at St James’ Park. The Swedish international has netted an impressive 35 Premier League goals in 67 appearances, consistently finishing as the club’s top scorer for two consecutive seasons.
Isak’s outstanding performances have not gone unnoticed, attracting interest from top clubs like Arsenal and Chelsea. However, Newcastle remains firm in their stance, demanding a fee well over the £100m mark for their star striker.
Isak’s goals have been instrumental in Newcastle’s return to the Champions League after a 20-year hiatus, underscoring his value to the team.
Despite Isak’s prolific form, Newcastle is keen to bolster their attacking options. Callum Wilson has struggled with fitness issues, limiting his impact on Eddie Howe’s squad. Consequently, Howe is on the lookout for a reliable forward who can either partner with Isak or serve as a dependable alternative in the 2024/25 season.
According to journalist James Nursey, Newcastle is in the race to sign Aston Villa striker Jhon Duran.
The 20-year-old Colombian has also attracted interest from Chelsea and West Ham United, with the latter making three bids this summer in their quest for a new center-forward.
Villa, however, is holding out for a £40m fee for Duran, who is eager for more first-team opportunities to further his development in the Premier League.
Why Duran is a Better Option than Calvert-Lewin
In recent months, Newcastle has been linked with Everton striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin. However, their interest has waned, as the Magpies recognize Duran as a superior option.
Despite Calvert-Lewin’s seven goals in 32 Premier League appearances for Everton, Newcastle believes Duran’s potential and performance metrics make him a more promising candidate.
When comparing the two forwards, it’s evident that Duran, despite playing fewer minutes, has produced superior numbers.
| How Duran compares to Calvert-Lewin in per 90 2023/24 | ||
|---|---|---|
| Statistics | Duran | Calvert-Lewin |
| Games | 23 | 32 |
| Minutes played | 475 | 2171 |
| Goals | 5 | 9 |
| Goals per 90 | 0.95 | 0.29 |
| Shots | 3.8 | 2.9 |
| Aerials won | 63% | 49% |
| Take-on success | 40% | 33% |
| Stats via FBref | ||
According to FBref, Duran averaged a higher goals per 90 minutes ratio, more shots per 90 minutes, and won a higher percentage of aerial duels compared to Calvert-Lewin. These statistics highlight Duran’s potential to excel in various aspects of the game, making him an ideal fit for Newcastle’s attacking strategy.
Duran’s first full season in the Premier League has been a resounding success. He played a crucial role in helping Aston Villa secure a Champions League spot, mirroring Newcastle’s remarkable achievement in the 2022/23 season. His ability to score vital goals and his overall impact on the pitch have made him a valuable asset for Villa.
Acquiring Duran could allow Eddie Howe to tweak his tactical setup, potentially forming a formidable partnership with Alexander Isak.
Duran’s left foot, described as a “weapon” by talent scout Jacek Kulig, adds another dimension to Newcastle’s attacking options. The Colombian’s versatility and skill set make him a promising addition, capable of enhancing Newcastle’s offensive prowess.
While both Duran and Calvert-Lewin command similar transfer fees, Newcastle would be making a significant error by choosing the latter over the former. Duran’s impressive debut season and his potential for further growth under Howe’s guidance make him a more strategic and long-term investment for the Magpies.
Alexander Isak has undoubtedly been a game-changer for Newcastle United, but the club’s ambitions require additional firepower. Jhon Duran emerges as a promising candidate to complement Isak and strengthen Newcastle’s attack.
As the transfer window progresses, securing Duran could prove to be a masterstroke, ensuring Newcastle remains competitive in both domestic and European competitions.
