A little over a month ago, the summer transfer window closed, but discussions on social media regarding Newcastle United’s potential reinforcements have already begun. One prominent name in the conversation is Kalvin Phillips, who has been linked to a move to St. James’ Park. There’s also talk about bringing in a younger striker or an attacking midfielder to bolster Eddie Howe’s squad, similar to the positions mentioned during the summer transfer window. Strengthening the right-wing position is also a possibility.
Nevertheless, Miguel Almiron has continued to impress, dispelling any doubts about his previous season’s form. He scored a fantastic goal against PSG, and his performance under the guidance of the Magpies’ head coach has significantly elevated his stock. Despite Almiron’s excellence, it’s apparent that the squad lacks the necessary firepower in the final third, especially as the winger is entering the later stages of his career.
Jacob Murphy is a hard worker, but his goal and assist ratio leaves room for improvement. However, there’s no immediate indication that Newcastle will spend lavishly in January to secure European football qualification once again. Their January spending will likely depend on their Champions League performance, which, if successful, can provide a substantial financial boost and ensure compliance with Financial Fair Play regulations.
Newcastle’s demolition of PSG in the Champions League signaled their return to the European stage and their intent to stay there. To compete with Premier League giants, they’ll need consistent improvement, but Financial Fair Play restrictions limit their growth potential. Their summer signings, Tino Livramento and Lewis Hall, reflect a focus on nurturing future talent ready for the first-team squad.
Another promising addition is Yankuba Minteh, who has exceeded expectations, albeit while on loan at Feyenoord. Minteh has yet to visit Newcastle, as his signing was completed in the Netherlands before joining Feyenoord on a season-long loan. This loan will help him meet Work Permit regulations and boost his development as a young player. Despite a slow start at Feyenoord, he has made significant progress, earning his Champions League debut and a senior international cap.
Minteh could potentially solve Newcastle’s right-wing conundrum, as he has primarily played on the right flank for Feyenoord, contributing three goals and one assist in domestic matches. Rumors suggest that Feyenoord is interested in making the transfer permanent, but Newcastle is unlikely to approve such a move given his impressive performances. This makes Minteh a valuable addition to Eddie Howe’s squad for the next season.
Speaking prior to Feyenoord’s Champions League clash with Atletico Madrid, earlier this season, Slot said: “He [Minteh] certainly doesn’t lack self-confidence. His willingness to give everything is enormous.
“When we see his statistics, it is really impressive. Minteh ran more sprint metres against Ajax in an hour than many players in the two games. He is incredibly fast. And he wants it so badly.”
He is drawing comparisons to Almiron’s style of play at Newcastle United. Minteh’s WhoScored rating is the 12th highest in the Eredivisie, even though he has played fewer minutes than those he’s compared to. He is outperforming experienced internationals and more seasoned players.
Considering that Newcastle reportedly paid just €7 million for Minteh, he may turn out to be one of the best bargains of the last transfer window. While the transition from the Eredivisie to the Premier League is a significant challenge, Minteh has so far passed every test with flying colors. It’s still early in his loan, but it wouldn’t be surprising to see Newcastle pursue similar deals in the future.
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