Newcastle United would benefit from signing the prolific Dutchman.
Newcastle United may have one more Championship match to play, but they will already be thinking ahead to their Premier League return, with manager Rafa Benitez likely to considerably strengthen again this summer.
The Magpies have arguably the best side ever assembled for a second-tier promotion push but that does not mean they are ready to compete at the top end of the Premier League.
Indeed, Benitez will know there are key areas of his squad that need strengthening, not least up front.
While Dwight Gayle has been in blistering form when fit and available, Newcastle have been over reliant on the ex-Crystal Palace man and they would be wise to go all out for a striker they have long been linked with in the form of Bas Dost.
As reported by the Chronicle, Newcastle tried to sign the Dutchman last summer, prior to his move to Sporting Lisbon.
Benitez was unsuccessful then and he will have no doubt watched ruefully as Dost fill his boots in Portugal, scoring 33 goals in 38 appearances for Sporting.
It is an outstanding record, and one that means Newcastle should try again now they are back among the Premier League big boys.
As a sweetener, they should offer Sporting Aleksandar Mitrovic in exchange, with the Serbian international failing to replicate his best form at St. James’ Park but still a desirable option for many clubs across Europe given his innate talent.
Mitrovic’s goal-scoring form was sporadic at best when he was last in the top flight, and he has not fared much better this season, so Newcastle should see if Sporting would be willing to sanction a swap deal.
It would see Mitrovic given another chance to impress elsewhere and Newcastle get one of Europe’s most prolific front men.
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