Could Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez bring Forestieri to St. James’ Park in January?
Newcastle United were linked with a move for Fernando Forestieri during the summer transfer window – could the Magpies renew their interest in the Sheffield Wednesday forward next month?
Fernando Forestieri of Sheffield Wednesday in action against Newcastle United
How is he getting on?
August’s misunderstanding took some getting over for both Sheffield Wednesday and Forestieri, however, the Italian had started to look the part again, scoring in three successive games before a recent suspension. He has scored six goals and assisted another three in 14 starts this season.
Do Newcastle United still need him?
Monday’s defeat, ironically against the Owls, suggests so. Mo Diame again struggled as a number 10, meaning a specialist could be sought in that position – and the sooner the better, with Jonjo Shelvey suspended for the next four matches.
Newcastle’s Mohamed Diame: So anonymous against Wednesday that there is no image in our bank
Can the Magpies get him next month?
Wednesday boss Carlos Carvalhal continues to insist that no player will be sold against his wishes, which implies it would take one helluva bid to prise Forestieri away from Hillsborough. That said, Newcastle are about the only Championship side that could A) afford him and B) turn the 26-year-old’s head. However, with one eye on the Premier League, will Rafa Benitez have longer-term targets in mind? If not, the Toon boss wanted Brentford’s Alan Judge in the summer and at a reported cost of £500,000, the Irishman could be a more suitable option in the meantime.
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