The 28-year-old is a shock transfer target for Newcastle United; but would he be an uninspiring addition or a canny signing?
Though Newcastle United will be on the lookout for players capable of easing the transition back into the Premier League, Scott Arfield appears something of a left-field choice on first viewing.
The Sun (22/03, page 52) claims that Rafael Benitez is interested in making an approach for the 28-year-old Burnley midfielder in the summer though Arfield is hardly a name to inspire the fans.
The Canada international has only started 18 Premier League games for Burnley this season, scoring once, while he has been overshadowed by a number of his exit-linked team-mates from Michael Keane to Andre Gray.
Moreover, the Daily Mirror reports that owner Mike Ashley has reinstated a controversial transfer policy focused on signing players under the age of 26 with potential re-sale value. Therefore, few would have expected that Arfield would emerge as a potential summer target.
Yet, the link makes more sense when you really think about it. The Chronicle reports that Benitez is hoping to strengthen the left hand side of his midfield with Yoan Gouffran out of contract in the summer and Christian Atsu set to return to Chelsea at the end of his loan spell.
Arfield, who has also impressed Benitez with his versatility, has started the majority of his 2016/17 games on the left wing. And, unlike the often anonymous Gouffran, has proven himsef in the Premier League.
His contract also expires in 2018, meaning he should be available on the cheap and thus freeing up funds to target more ambitious, expensive deals.
Furthermore, the fact that Burnley have cemented their place in mid-table and away from the relegation battle in their first season back in the top flight means Arfield has experience in making a successful transition from the Championship to the Premier League.
Newcastle will be aiming to replicate Burnley’s achievement next season and the addition of Arfield would give them a much better chance.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
