Newcastle United are being linked with Empoli attacker Arnel Jakupovic.
General view of St. James’ Park
According to the Daily Star, Newcastle United are keen on Empoli attacker Arnel Jakupovic – just months after he was sold by Middlesbrough.
The Magpies capped off their promotion-winning Championship campaign with a 3-0 win over Barnsley at St. James’ Park, which handed them the title ahead of Brighton and Hove Albion.
With manager Rafael Benitez now staying at the club, it’s imperative that Newcastle strengthen during the summer transfer window – but the latest transfer rumour suggests a more long-term view rather than an immediate impact player.
The Daily Star report that Newcastle are interested in snapping up Empoli striker Arnel Jakupovic, despite local rivals Middlesbrough only selling him in January.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
Jakupovic, 18, joined Boro from Austria Vienna back in the summer of 2015, but spent all of his time in the youth ranks before being sold on to Serie A side Empoli earlier this year.
The Austrian attacker made his Serie A debut as a late substitute in Sunday’s 3-1 home win over Bologna, yet he has allegedly attracted the attention of Newcastle, who could look to bring Jakupovic back to the North East.
Newcastle players celebrate
Surprisingly, it’s stated that Empoli would want around £6million for the teenage attacker despite paying less than £1million to sign him just four months ago, and it’s somewhat hard to see Newcastle paying such a considerable fee for the 18-year-old.
Yet, the report claims that Benitez sees real potential in Jakupovic, meaning Newcastle could still pursue a deal for Jakupovic this summer, in a move that would make Middlesbrough question their decision to let him leave.
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