Steve Bruce is reportedly fighting to bring Aston Villa full-back Ahmed Elmohamady to Newcastle United this summer.
According to a report from The Sun, Steve Bruce is keen to sign Ahmed Elmohamady from Aston Villa this summer, but he has been having to work hard to convince the Newcastle hierarchy to make a move for the Egypt international.
It will come as no surprise to anyone that Bruce is interested in Elmohamady. The right-back signed for the Magpies boss twice during his time at Sunderland – firstly, on loan before joining permanently – three times at Hull, and then followed Bruce to Villa.
The Sun reports that Bruce is keen for the 31-year-old to join him at St James’ Park, but is having to convince the Newcastle decision-makers to target Elmohamady with the recruitment team on Tyneside keen to sign younger players.
Elmohamady made 42 appearances for the Villans in all competitions last term. Although he may struggle for game-time a little more during the coming season – especially following the arrival of Frederic Guilbert – he is the kind of player that Dean Smith may well want to keep hold of.
He is a good understudy to have in the ranks, and offers plenty of versatility. Elmohamady may be slowly approaching the twilight of his career, but Smith would be wise to keep as many of the key men from last season as possible, especially after making so many signings during this window.
Having said that, if Bruce manages to get his way and Newcastle make a substantial bid for the wide-man, there may be a number of Villa fans keen to see the club consider the offer seriously.
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