Report: Newcastle United want Hull City’s Sam Clucas as Yoan Gouffran replacement

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Hull City’s Sam Clucas was linked with Newcastle United in January but a deal could still be on the cards heading into the summer.

If Newcastle United fans thought the left wing position was one of the weakest areas of their squad, just wait until the summer.

Erratic loanee Christian Atsu is set to return to parent club Chelsea after failing to convince Rafael Benitez that he is worth a permanent deal. And, despite his improved form this season, Yoan Gouffran’s previous inability to make the grade in the Premier League looks to have cost him any chance of earning a new contract when his deal expires in the summer, as reported by The Chronicle.

And while Newcastle’s hopes of bringing back Andros Townsend from Crystal Palace appear to be little more than a pipe dream, the chances of them luring Sam Clucas to St James’ Park appear far more realistic; especially if the Tigers end the season with relegation.

Though it is thanks to their fittingly tigerish midfielder that they are heading into the final four games of the season two points clear of Swansea City in 17th.

Earned his stripes

The 26-year-old, who was playing League Two football with Mansfield Town just three seasons ago, has earned admiration via his tenacious, hard-working displays and ability to fill in at centre midfield or at left back.

However, his stunning volley to cap a Man of the Match performance in Saturday’s 2-0 win against Watford was just rewards for an excellent campaign; one that appears to have drawn Newcastle’s attention.

The Daily Mail claimed in January that Hull refused to consider any offers from Newcastle for Clucas in January. But if Swansea overtake them in the battle for survival, they may be powerless to prevent him making the move north.

Where Clucas would fit into Benitez’s plans meanwhile is a question in itself. Whether an industrious Gouffran replacement on the left or an upgrade on Jack Colback in the centre, he would certainly give Newcastle options.