According to a recent source, Newcastle United “likes him a lot” and is interested in adding a “dominant” player during the January transfer window.
Newcastle made a defensive relationship with a new player
Sven Botman’s prolonged absence this season has been detrimental to Eddie Howe, since the Dutchman has only made five Premier League matches. Although Jamaal Lascelles has given cover, the team has given up 21 goals in 17 games, including three straight against Everton. He was such a pillar of the team last season.
Newcastle has suffered a never-ending spate of injuries, with prominent left-back Dan Burn among the other defenders who have been out for some time in addition to Botman. Just a handful of the players with fitness issues are on display; notable absentees include Joe Willock, Joelinton, Callum Wilson, and Alexander Isak. Nick Pope has been out for several months due to a shoulder ailment.
While it is hoped that the injuries will begin to lessen, Howe may want to add some fresh players during the January transfer window to allay concerns about possibly receiving more. Both Piero Hincapie of Bayer Leverkusen and Gonzalo Inacio, the center-back for Sporting CP, have been connected to Newcastle, and it appears that they may be working to add another defender.
“Like” Newcastle, Radu Dragusin
Newcastle is still considering a deal for Genoa defender Radu Dragusin, according to TuttoMercatoWeb [via Sport Witness]. The two sides had already had discussions in the past few months.
A move midway through the season cannot be ruled out, as the Magpies supposedly “like him a lot” and Genoa will “hardly be able to resist” a sizable bid for him in January.
If a transaction can be completed, Dragusin may be a great addition for Newcastle. Football talent scout Jake Kulig described him as “dominant,” citing his “tackling, athleticism, positioning, heading,” and “passing” as his strong points.
Radu Dragusin’s Serie A stats this season
Total
Appearances 16
Goal 1
Assists 1
Clearances per game 4.6
Aerial duel wins per game 3
Pass completion rate 81.9%
Since joining Genoa permanently from Juventus earlier this year, the 21-year-old has established himself as a fixture on the team, starting 16 Serie A games and averaging three aerial battle victories per contest.
Considering his age, the Magpies may see him as a long-term addition; someone who would not only join the team right away and offer fierce defense-line competition, but also serve as Botman’s center-back partner for many years to come, perhaps providing an improvement over Schar and Lascelles.
Although there is obviously a lot of competition for Dragusin’s signature, Newcastle will hope that he views them as the best option. Genoa appears to be very happy to sell him next month, which is an added plus.
