Newcastle should be looking at Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong instead.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
Newcastle United have been linked with a deal for Scotland international hero Leigh Griffiths this week, with the Daily Record claiming they are interested in the striker.
While the 26-year-old is a talented forward, Newcastle arguably already have better options, and there is another Celtic attacker they should be targeting instead.
That is winger Stuart Armstrong, who has been in terrific form and scored 17 goals this past season in all competitions, 15 coming in the Scottish Premiership.
Scotland’s Stuart Armstrong in action with England’s Kyle Walker
Armstrong has thrived this season after reverting to his best position as a central attacking midfielder, rather than being wasted out wide.
In addition to his goals he also provided seven assists, and his current contract situation could give Newcastle a slither of hope over a deal.
Armstrong is out of contract next summer and while this week he told The Scotsman he is keen to sign an extension with Celtic, it is still not too late for Newcastle to throw a spanner in the works and force him to consider making a U-turn.
Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong in action with Borussia Monchengladbach’s Jannik Vestergaard
Newcastle could benefit from further competition in a number 10 role, with Siem de Jong failing to make an impact and Mo Diame utilised in the position last season.
The Celtic ace has a goal against Inter Milan in the Europa League on his CV, and could benefit from a new challenge at Newcastle if they up the ante.
Still only 25, he has a lot to achieve. Staying at Celtic is his most likely next step, but Newcastle should make a late pitch to see if he can be swayed.
Celtic’s Stuart Armstrong shoots at goal
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