Newcastle United managed to overachieve with a thin squad in the top flight last season and Rafa Benitez wants to improve on their finish and is looking to sign players who will improve the squad for the next season.
This has seen the Magpies linked with exciting names and one name now on their radar is Stefano Sturaro.
Sturaro Up For Sale:
Having struggled to break into the first team at Juventus, the 25-year old has cut a frustrated figure recently and it is now understood that the Italian giants are ready to allow him to leave, in search of regular game time elsewhere.
Previously linked with a move to Everton, Sturaro is also wanted by the likes of Real Betis and Villarreal but Newcastle United are also taking steps to try and land him this summer. He could be allowed to leave for just £9m, so is Sturaro a good acquisition for Newcastle United?
Sturaro And His Strengths:
Having started his senior career with Genoa, the 25-year old moved to Turin back in 2014 and took two years to properly establish himself in the squad. He made 21 Serie A appearances for the Italian Champions in the 2016/17 season, when he also broke into the national side but failed to replicate his performances in the recently concluded campaign, making just seven league starts all season.
A central midfielder by trait, Sturaro can also play as a right-back and is a defensively astute presence in and around the box. Strong and dominating in his gameplay, he is smart with his movements and hold up play and loves to draw fouls, relieving pressure on his teammates.
He puts in crunching tackles in front of the backline, usually winning the ball back quickly while his ability to release the ball quickly and accurately, makes him much more dangerous. He can put in a shift in an attacking role but is at his best when sitting back and soaking up the pressure and at just 25 is a decent coup for most teams in Europe.
Where Does He Fit In?
In the 4-2-3-1 system which Rafa has used extensively at St James’ recently, Jonjo Shelvey and Mohamed Diame were both solid and consistent and had a decent backup from Mikel Merino, giving Rafa a variety of options for the two midfield roles.
But Sturaro adds a different dimension to the game, is perfect for the English style of play and at just £9m, is an absolute steal for the Magpies. The Spanish gaffer loves utility players and will want Sturaro in his side as he can solve more than one issue in the squad and is also an option for the long term.