Newcastle United are eyeing a summer move for Reims striker Remi Oudin, it has been claimed.
According to L’Equipe (via GFFN), Newcastle United have approached Reims regarding Oudin, who has a contract with the club until 2021.
The 22-year-old has shown the immense potential this season, and could on his way out of Reims this summer.
Newcastle, however, could face stiff competition in the pursuit of Oudin, with Watford and Fiorentina also keen on his services.
Remi Oudin: A shrewd choice by Benitez
Newcastle United lacked a bit of punch at times. In fact, only four teams have scored fewer goals than the Magpies so far, which will be a cause for concern for manager Rafael Benitez.
Hence, the addition of a new attacker is imperative again, especially with Salomon Rondon facing an uncertain future at the club. The Venezuelan international has impressed since his loan move from West Bromwich Albion but it’s undecided whether or not Newcastle will secure his services on a permanent basis this summer.
As for Oudin, he could turn out to be an interesting option for Benitez given his high-work rate in attack. While the 22-year-old, is by no means, a regular goalscorer, his ability to draw in defenders will allow the other Newcastle attackers to have more freedom in the final third.
As far as his gameplay is concerned, Oudin generally likes to operate at right-wing. But, he has a weak left-foot, which means he often tends to cut-inside and supply balls in-behind the defence. Another key feature of his game is that he likes to track-back, which could serve as a huge bonus for Benitez’s defence-oriented philosophy at Newcastle.
What makes Oudin such an appealing target for the Magpies is his versatility. The Frenchman can operate anywhere in the final third, even as a striker – and can thus provide Benitez with additional options as far as his tactical choices are concerned.
On the flip side, however, Oudin’s weak left foot means the 22-year-old is also prone to losing possession when cutting inside – allowing the opposition to initiate swift counter-attacking opportunities.
In addition, the Reims forward is relatively inexperienced too, as this is his debut season in the European top flight. This could certainly make life difficult for Oudin, especially in a league as tough as the Premier League.
Hence, the Newcastle hierarchy will need to be entirely sure of the player’s potential if they are to make a move for Oudin in the upcoming summer transfer window.
