Newcastle United are interested in re-signing Mehdi Abeid.
Mehdi Abeid of Newcastle United has a shot on goal
Newcastle United are considering re-signing midfielder Mehdi Abeid, according to French newspaper L’Equipe.
Abeid left the club in 2015, choosing to sign with Greek side Panathaniakos.
The Algerian played one season in Greece, winning the domestic cup, before moving to French club Dijon last summer.
Manchester United’s Chris Smalling in action with Newcastle’s Mehdi Abeid
Having shown he can cut the mustard in France, featuring 28 times this past season, Newcastle are now reportedly weighing up bringing him back to St James’ Park.
So why did they sell him in the first place?
Here is a look at the explanation of former manager Steve McClaren, who sanctioned the sale in August 2015.
He told The Chronicle: “He’s a good player. We brought in Wijnaldum and that’s unfortunate for Mehdi.
“But I liked Mehdi and he will make a player I’m sure.”
Former Newcastle boss Steve McClaren
Abeid is more of a defensive midfield player compared to Wijnaldum, who was deployed in an attacking role at Newcastle.
Wijnaldum has since been sold to Liverpool, although recruits like Mo Diame and Isaac Hayden will make forcing his way into Newcastle’s first team tough for Abeid.
Essentially the reason for selling Abeid was partly that it was a numbers game, and competition for places still remains. He would not be able to walk straight into the side.
Now 24, he is more developed as a player but has three years left on his deal and won’t come cheap for Newcastle if they wish to buy him back.
Newcastle’s Mehdi Abeid (L) and West Brom’s Saido Berahino in action
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