Newcastle United are still believed to be in the market for a striker, with FC Utrecht hitman Sebastien Haller high on their wish-list.
Rafa Benitez has reportedly phoned Haller to convince him to join Newcastle
Reports emanating from France claim that Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez made a personal phone-call to Sebastien Haller in an attempt to convince him to join the Magpies, according to L’Equipe.
Benitez has been a long-term admirer of Haller, with the Chronicle reporting that the North East outfit’s hierarchy have already made contact with FC Utrecht over the possibility of signing the 6 ft 2 in Frenchman.
Benitez’s men suffered a difficult beginning to their Championship campaign with back-to-back losses, but have bounced back impressively with consecutive victories.
Newcastle’s Dwight Gayle would benefit from having a proven striker alongside him
They do, however, quite clearly need a striker with more of a physical presence, and Haller has all the attributes required to be a success in England’s second tier.
L’Equipe report that a Newcastle bid for Haller is now imminent following the Spaniard’s reported telephone conversation with Haller, with the French media outlet claiming that the Dutch outfit value the 22-year-old at around £6 million.
Rafael Benitez
With only 10 days remaining until the transfer window slams shut, Benitez will have to move quickly if he is to seal a move for Haller.
He has the ability to have such a resounding effect on the Magpies’ season, and should a move come to fruition, he could be the difference for Newcastle between automatic promotion and the lottery of the play-offs.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
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