The Austrian midfielder would undoubtedly be an upgrade on Rafa Benitez’ current options at Newcastle United.
The Magpies were mightily impressive in the Championship last season, but they will undoubtedly need more creativity and guile in the Premier League this term, if they expect to enjoy a successful campaign in the top flight.
With this in mind, Rafa Benitez will surely be looking to add an established midfield play-maker to his ranks during the off-season, and an interesting option for them could be Werder Bremen star Zlatko Junuzovic.
The talented Austrian has been with the Bundesliga side for five years, and has clocked up an impressive 20 goals and 49 assists in 172 outings, mostly whilst being deployed as an orthodox central midfielder.
Werder Bremen’s Zlatko Junuzovic in action
The 29-year-old would be a typical Rafa signing. He is technically gifted, with an incredibly intelligent footballing brain, and possesses superb vision. The Bremen star is also a tremendously hard worker, which would make him appeal even more to the pragmatic Spaniard.
The Toon already have sound options in midfield, including the likes of Jonjo Shelvey and Jack Colback, but none of them offer what Junuzovic would bring to the team.
Despite standing ta just under 5ft 8in, the Austria international is ideally suited to the robust nature of English football, what with his incredibly high stamina levels. He is also extremely durable, something that is highlighted by his 473 appearances for club and country over the past 12 years.
The 29-year-old has just one year remaining on his current deal with the German outfit, so Newcastle shouldn’t have to dig too deep to tempt them into selling.
And if Benitez does manage to capture Junuzovic, it could turn out to be a hugely important signing for the Magpies.
Republic of Ireland’s Glenn Whelan in action with Austria’s Zlatko Junuzovic
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
