Newcastle United have earmarked Sebastien Haller as a top transfer target and could try to sign him in the January transfer window.
The Northern Echo claim that the Magpies have scouted Haller and considering their interest, it’s likely they’ll launch a bid as they try to put an end to their goalscoring woes.
The Magpies have struggled for goals and have managed just six goals in 10 appearances so far in the league.
Haller is currently in his second season with Frankfurt after making the move from Utrecht last year. The 24-year old scored a combined 45 leagues goals in three Eredivisie seasons and his impressive form eventually made the German side sign him.
Is Haller the solution?
Newcastle added Yoshinori Muto and Salomon Rondon in the summer transfer window and though the duo were expected to add goals, they have struggled to find the service.
Newcastle could do with better forwards and Haller’s record in the Bundesliga is impressive but he is a pretty young player who is still adapting to the league after scoring nine goals in his first full season with the club.
Haller has managed a better start this season, already scoring six goals in nine appearances this season.
Although Haller’s goalscoring record is impressive, Frankfurt have a good midfield that has aided Haller’s performances this season, something Newcastle do not have.
Newcastle are 18th in the league when to comes to shots on target and while part of that has been their forwards’ wayward finishing, the absence of a capable number 10 and wingers who can create openings.
Benitez has tried to play it safe against the bigger sides and he cannot be blamed for that as he doesn’t have the players who can stand toe to toe with the bigger teams.
Considering his form in the past 16 months, Haller would be an upgrade over the Newcastle’s current forwards, but he could struggle like the rest of them if he doesn’t have the necessary service.
Benitez’s side have picked up just three points this season and will next take on Watford at home in the league.