Newcastle target Goncalo Ramos shows Southampton what they’re missing

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Premier League-linked Goncalo Ramos is proving his ‘outstanding’ talent during a prolific season at Benfica, former coach Joao Tralhao tells Goal of the reported Southampton, Wolves and Newcastle target. 

While Manchester United’s striker search has been framed as something of a fight between Harry Kane and Victor Osimhen, it’s important not to forget about a man who shot to fame with a hat-trick in the Qatar World Cup.

Ramos, nearly a decade Kane’s junior, is not only a terrific finisher, he is also a prodigious worker. Think the stylishness of Anthony Martial plus the endeavour of Wout Weghorst and you’ve got Erik ten Hag’s dream number nine. 

“He is a really good player,” Tralhao says of a player who began life in a deeper role. “His scoring ability as a midfielder was crazy, so there was big potential for him as a striker.

“He’s a great worker, always running and working for the team defensively. I think big clubs, ambitious clubs, they need to press high and take the initiative. And, for that, you need a striker who is the first defender.

“Goncalo is that. In terms of defensive actions, he’s amazing. He never stops.” 

Southampton missed out on Cody Gakpo and Goncalo Ramos

In addition to Man United, GiveMeSport believe that Newcastle and Wolves – two teams lacking a consistent goal threat – are big fans of 21-year-old Ramos. Southampton held talks last summer. But, like Cody Gakpo, this ship appears to have sailed for a club sitting at the bottom of the Premier League table. 

Ramos has 18 goals and eight assists for Portuguese league leaders Benfica.

“In terms of attacking, he has the instinct to score, which is not usual. He understands the spaces. He’s very clever, clinical with his finishing,” Tralhao adds. “(Goncalo Ramos) understands the timing, movement, the places to be. He attacks the space very well.

“He’s a very good forward. Sometimes he has some mistakes in his link-up, but that’s not his main weapon. His main weapon is inside the box. He can score from everywhere, right foot, left foot, head. Technically he is outstanding.”