Alan Shearer has told BBC Sport that Newcastle United definitely need to strengthen in the final third – and name drops both James Maddison and Harvey Barnes amid reports that The Toon want the Leicester City duo.
Newcastle have made three summer signings so far, despite their vast wealth. A permanent deal for Matty Targett, a long-awaited move for Sven Botman – and the bargain arrival of Nick Pope. A combined figure of over £60million.
But fans have been expecting more to come in. Especially, in the final third. A deal for Hugo Ekitike has fallen through, with the Frenchman moving to PSG. That interest in Ekitike is proof that Eddie Howe would like another striker.
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On the right, they could do with a winger. Miguel Almiron, Ryan Fraser and Jacob Murphy are options, but they have all failed to nail down a starting spot during their Newcastle careers. Maddison and Barnes are reportedly targets.
Reports claim that Newcastle are even willing to include Martin Dubravka in a deal for £60million-rated Pope. Discussing Newcastle’s summer business, Shearer name dropped both players, and wants attacking signings.
“Another signing or two could make the difference there, especially up front. With Callum Wilson’s history, you would think at some stage he is going to get another injury and they will need some more attacking options.
“Whether they go for a striker or a different type of forward player – there have been reports about bids for Leicester’s James Maddison and Harvey Barnes – it is definitely in that department that they need to strengthen.”
Newcastle need to strengthen: Shearer name drops Maddison and Barnes
What a couple of signings Maddison and Barnes would be. Barnes solves the need for a winger, although he has largely played on the left. It might see Allan Saint-Maximin move to the right, or Barnes moulded to the right.
In terms of Maddison, it is the perfect fit. Newcastle have plenty of central midfielders, ones that can score goals. But you look at Newcastle’s squad and there is no obvious no.10. Maddison would fill that void, with aplomb.
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