Islam Slimani has joined Newcastle United on loan until the end of the season from Leicester City.
John Barnes has told HITC, speaking on behalf of Bonus Code Bets, that he believes Islam Slimani can have a big impact at Newcastle United.
Newcastle brought in Slimani from Leicester City on a loan deal in the January transfer window, but the Algerian is yet to make an appearance for Rafael Benitez’s side.
Slimani has been battling against injury since arriving on Tyneside, but is edging closer to full fitness.
Slimani could now be used in Newcastle’s next match, which comes against Bournemouth in two weekends’ time.
And Barnes believes that Newcastle fans will enjoy watching Slimani lead the line for them.
“I like Slimani. He’s a number nine, he’s good in the box, he’s good in the air and is aggressive,” the former England international said. “Newcastle like their number nines, which play in the box. At Leicester it didn’t really work out because they have others that play ahead of him, but he’s a big strong boy and the fans will definitely take to him.
“He’s got a good goalscoring record and good quality, and I think he’ll really help Newcastle.”
Newcastle have been struggling to find a prolific scorer all season, with both Joselu and Dwight Gayle failing to hit the back of the net with any regularity.
Joselu currently leads Newcastle’s goalscoring charts, but he has got his name on the scoresheet just four times all campaign.
Slimani played 17 times for Leicester across all competitions in the early part of the season, and knocked in five goals for the Foxes.
John Barnes was speaking exclusively to HITC on behalf of Bonus Code Bets.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
