The Serbia international didn’t have a great campaign for Newcastle in the Championship, but he’s still held in high regard elsewhere.
Newcastle United’s Aleksandar Mitrovic reacts
Newcastle United could be saying goodbye to Serbia international striker Aleksandar Mitrovic sooner rather than later, after Turkish champions Besiktas have arranged a meeting with the club to discuss a possible transfer, as reported by Fotospor and covered by the Shields Gazette.
The 22-year-old signed from Anderlecht in the 2015 summer window and scored nine goals in 34 Premier League games for a side who got relegated, but had a poor campaign in the 2016/17 season with just six goals in 29 appearances in all competitions.
Newcastle United’s Aleksandar Mitrovic in action with Barnsley’s Adam Jackson
According to Fotospor, as covered by the Shields Gazette, Fenerbahce are also interested in the young striker, but Besiktas have moved ahead of their domestic rivals in the pecking order for Mitrovic’s signature by calling a meeting with the Magpies.
It’s unknown whether Newcastle actually plan to sell Mitrovic or not, as given his age there’s still plenty of time for him to come good, so it’s very possible that Rafael Benitez would rather see a loan move materialise rather than a permanent switch elsewhere.
Newcastle’s Aleksandar Mitrovic celebrates being promoted to the Premier League with Jack Colback
A lot could also depend on whether Newcastle land Chelsea striker Tammy Abraham on a temporary basis, with Brighton and Hove Albion also interested on taking the 19-year-old on loan, though the London Evening Standard reports that it’s likely to be St James’ Park where Abraham ends up.
It seems certain to be an exciting summer on Tyneside for Rafael Benitez and Newcastle, who will look to not just survive in the Premier League following their promotion, but to re-establish themselves as a top half side.
Ipswich Town’s Luke Chambers in action with Newcastle United’s Aleksandar Mitrovic
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