According to Turkish news outlet, Karadeniz Gazette, Newcastle United are ready to rival Liverpool in the pursuit of Abdulkadir Omur.
The Trabzonspor playmaker has impressed in the Turkish Superlig over the past 18 months and a move to Newcastle is on the cards, with the deal appearing too risky from Liverpool’s perspective.
We discuss the pros and cons of Omur’s potential move to St. James’ Park.
Omur to Newcastle – Pros
Omur is a wide midfielder, who likes to get into the half-spaces, either to complete his side’s transition from defence to offence or to create chances by linking up with his teammates.
The Turk’s excellent vision allows him to thread well-timed passes in the attacking half, while his nimble movements help him drift past defenders. The 19-year-old has attempted 2.6 dribbles per game and has averaged just under one key pass per game.
The aforementioned traits could be beneficial for Newcastle United, who have lacked creativity in the attacking half.
Omur is blessed with raw pace that allows him to stretch defences, meaning Benitez can utilise him in the wider positions or well as deploy him as an out and out number ten, from where the gaffer can make use of Omur’s drive while getting forward.
Omur to Newcastle – Cons
Whether or not will Omur be able to make the transition from the Turkish Superlig to the fast-paced nature of the Premier League is the biggest question.
The 19-year-old has had very little experience in the highest level of football and yet to win his first cap for the Turkish national team.
Therefore, the 47 appearances he has made in the Turkish top flight remains his only notable experience in professional football, raising doubts on whether he can perform in a physical and challenging league.
Omur’s pace and trickery in the final third would add more spark to the Newcastle attack as Benitez looks ahead to the second half of the campaign.
Despite all his abilities, however, the biggest demerit Omur has is he doesn’t have the experience and might take a while to get used to the pace of the league. Can the Magpies really afford someone like that with the fear of relegation looming right now?
Stat courtesy: Whoscored, Image courtesy: Hurriyet.com