The talented midfielder would be a superb summer addition for Newcastle United.
Newcastle United manager Rafa Benitez
Rafa Benitez faces a busy couple of months ahead of him, as he looks to build a squad capable of enjoying a successful campaign when they return to action in the Premier League.
The Spaniard has managed to galvanise the Toon since his appointment as manager at St James’ Park last year, but the Newcastle squad is arguably lacking in quality, ahead of what will surely be a challenging season in England’s top flight.
One particular area where Benitez will want to improve is central midfield, with the addition of a classy ball-playing midfielder thought to feature highly on his agenda.
With this in mind, the Tyneside outfit should consider making an approach for Jonathan de Guzman, who Benitez signed for Napoli in 2014.
Jonathan de Guzman
The 14-capped Holland international has already proven that he has all the attributes needed to be a success in England’s top flight, after spending a successful two-year spell with Swansea City.
The 29-year-old is an expert passer of the football, with fantastic technical ability, and the prospect of having him line up alongside Jonjo Shelvey in the heart of the Magpies’ midfield would surely be a tantalising one for the Toon Army.
Jonathan de Guzman in action during his Swansea days
De Guzman spent last season on loan with Serie A side Chievo, who have an option to buy him, but they have not yet acted upon that, which means that the door is still open for Newcastle, should Benitez wish to pursue a move for his former signing.
If Chievo fail to make a concrete offer for the Dutchman, the Magpies could potentially pick him up on the cheap, with his contract with parent club Napoli due to expire in the summer of 2018.
And if Benitez manages to bring De Guzman to St James’ Park, it could turn out to be a real coup.
Jonathan de Guzman
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