According to The Athletic, Newcastle United have been closely monitoring the performances of Ajax’s Edson Alvarez.
Indeed, this report states that Newcastle have extensively scouted Alvarez alongside the likes of Scott McTominay, Youri Tielemans and James Maddison.
The Magpies had been searching for a new midfielder throughout the January transfer window and have been linked to several players, including Conor Gallagher and Sander Berge. However, no transfer came to fruition last month.
Despite not having the best of seasons this year – he’s been described as ‘terrible’, Alvarez has been a standout player for Ajax for some time now, making him an attractive target for Newcastle United and numerous other Premier League clubs.
Arsenal also considered a late bid for the Eredivisie star in January.
The Mexican midfielder would fill a gap in this Newcastle team, providing a much-needed defensive presence in the midfield.
Bruno Guimaraes, who is at his best when given license to roam, would benefit greatly from the addition of Alvarez as he would allow the Brazilian to play with a bit more freedom.
Alvarez’s versatility and ability to play as a defensive midfielder or as a center back would provide Newcastle with more options in two problem positions, and Newcastle will need that sort of depth if they’re going to be playing in Europe next season.
It remains to be seen whether Newcastle will make a move for Alvarez in the summer, but after it was reported that they have been closely monitoring his progress, there’s every chance that a move materialises at the end of the season.
The club’s extensive scouting of the Mexican international suggests that they are seriously considering a transfer, and even if they don’t go for Alvarez directly, another player of a similar profile will surely be on the agenda.
Keep an eye out for any rumours linking Newcastle with any new midfielders in the summer.
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