So, Mike Ashley has finally gone, as has Steve Bruce, and Newcastle’s new owners can finally start their revolution on Tyneside.
Every big-money footballing overhaul needs a marquee signing, and it seems Amanda Staveley and co. have settled on Ousmane Dembele.
What’s the story?
According to Foot Mercato, Newcastle in are talks with the 24-year-old over a January deal, with his contract set to expire in June.
It is also said that the Magpies are hoping to secure the winger to a five-year contract, worth £245,000-a-week.
That would make Dembele Newcastle’s highest earner by some margin – Joelinton’s £86,538-a-week salary is currently the largest salary at Newcastle.
The 27-cap France international cost Barcelona £135.5m, although he certainly hasn’t repaid their faith in his ability.
Dembele has scored just 30 goals in 118 games for Barcelona, while also spending large amounts of time in the treatment room.
Lionel Messi loves Newcastle target Ousmane Dembele
If Lionel Messi rates you, then you’re probably not a bad player.
That is the case for Dembele, who was interestingly labelled a ‘phenomenon’ by the six-time Ballon d’Or winner.
Speaking to Marca (via Bleacher Report), Messi said: “On the pitch (Dembele) is a phenomenon and it depends on him (how good he becomes). He has all the opportunity in the world to do what he wants. He can be one of the best.”
There’s no denying that Dembele’s career has stagnated significantly at the Camp Nou, and Newcastle would certainly be taking a risk due to his injury issues.
Nevertheless, there’s a reason Barcelona spent £135.5m on him, as he has the potential to become a footballing great.
The quicker Dembele gets his head down and focuses on his career, the more chance there is of him realising his potential.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
