Newcastle United should prioritise Leander Dendoncker this summer.
RSC Anderlecht v Zenit St. Petersburg – UEFA Europa League
Youri Tielemans is not the only breakthrough star making the grade at Anderlecht.
Leander Dendoncker has recently earned a call up to the Belgian national squad after a series of strong performances for the Belgian side.
He is a player which Newcastle United should be monitoring as they prepare to seal promotion and start building for their Premier League challenge next season.
Dendoncker is a defensive midfielder whose rangy athletic ability makes him ideally suited to Premier League football.
He has managed to get Europa League football under his belt this season, and goes up against Manchester United in the quarter finals of the competition over two legs.
Football Soccer – Zenit St. Petersburg v RSC Anderlecht
Dendocker has three goals this season, and impressively for a central midfielder, has picked up just three yellow cards.
Just earlier this month he was tipped by his former boss to make a move, with Aad de Moss telling Voetbal Nieuws:
“Dendoncker has so much: a good kicking technique, good attitude, recovery power. He is less elegant and spectacular than Tielemans, but I can see him depart for a large amount. At clubs like Dortmund, Sevilla, Valencia, Everton, Southampton he certainly can bring something.”
Both Everton and Southampton are sides Newcastle will be not only competing with next season, but attempting to emulate.
In Rafa Benitez they have a trump card, a manager with a huge reputation, able to give the Toon a big sway in the transfer market this summer.
Dendoncker also has the ability to play in central defence, and could figure as part of a back three for Belgium this week.
His versatility is another string to his bow which should make Newcastle consider a move, but it is in midfield where he could be his biggest asset.
His defensive ability would help teammate Jonjo Shelvey have greater license to thrive from a creative standpoint, and help in turn striker Dwight Gayle.
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