Steve Bruce surprised many people by how well he managed Newcastle United last season. The Magpies were expected to go down before a ball was kicked but ended up 13th.
However, things weren’t as easy as they appeared. Record-signing Joelinton was their biggest hope for goals last term but the Brazilian struggled throughout the campaign.
He scored just four goals in all competitions last term. That’s a poor return for a centre-forward and the fact he cost £40 million (BBC) last year makes it appear worse.
Therefore, Newcastle’s biggest transfer priority this summer was a striker and the Magpies have brought in Callum Wilson from Bournemouth, an impressive signing.
Wilson is expected to be the Magpies’ first-choice striker this term but, if a new report is to be believed, Bruce is eyeing a move for another forward before the window closes on 5 October.
Calcio Napoli 24 claims the Magpies are formulating a plan to sign Arkadiusz Milik. The Pole, who scored 14 goals in all competitions last season, has less than a year remaining on his contract and is expected to leave Napoli soon.
Newcastle can sign Milik but on one condition
AS Roma have been heavily linked with a move for the striker but that deal is proving difficult to close at the moment. Newcastle have reportedly put their name in the hat, but there’s a problem.
The report claims Newcastle can afford Milik’s wages but the transfer fee remains the stumbling block. A loan with an obligation to buy is a way the transfer could be completed but, to accomplish that, the Magpies have to get rid of one player.
Newcastle can’t sign Milik without selling Joelinton first. The Magpies reportedly want £36 million for their record signing but it’s unlikely anyone would fork out so much money considering his record last season.
Milik would be a top signing for the Magpies but it looks unlikely at the moment. Joelinton works best when he has a partner up front. If Bruce can find a way to integrate the Brazilian and Wilson in the same side, it could eliminate the need for another striker without spending another penny.
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