Newcastle United have been linked with a host of players recently as the rumour mill is abuzz after reports of the Magpies getting new owners by the start of the 2019-20 season.
The Premier League side are yet to secure manager Rafa Benitez’s future, but that hasn’t reportedly stopped Newcastle from negotiating with various clubs and players.
The latest player to be linked with Newcastle is former Porto winger Yacine Brahimi, as per Portuguese outlet Record (cited by Sport Witness).
The Algerian international’s contract with the Portuguese club comes to an end after June, and he is likely to have a few offers on his table.
But, the 29-year-old’s contract demands are astronomical as he has reportedly asked €6 million as signing bonus and €14 million for a three-year contract.
Numerous clubs are interested in signing the winger as the likes of Olympique Marseille, Everton, West Ham United are also keen on securing the signature of the winger.
Yacine Brahimi – Fact file
Since signing in 2014 for the Portuguese club for a sum of €6.5 million from Granada, Brahimi has gone on to make close to 200 appearances, scoring 50 goals in the process.
In the recently concluded season, the Algerian international scored 13 times and also assisted 4 times across 47 games for the club.
The winger was born in France and played for the French youth teams before declaring his allegiance for Algeria, scoring 11 goals in 45 appearances for the African nation.
Is Yacine Brahimi worth the fuss?
Brahimi is a tricky, quick, and skilful winger who is unpredictable and can conjure something magical out of nothing. The left-sided winger likes to take on defenders, cutting in with his favoured right foot and causing havoc in attacking areas.
The winger is quick to turn the defender and has great close control skills, keeping the ball close to him and tricking his way through defences. He also has the vision to pick out a forward run with his through balls and passing.
Despite all of his ability, would it be wise for Newcastle to buy him? I don’t think it would.
Brahimi is 29 years of age, hence paying such a big amount for someone who is nearing 30 is not a good decision, especially for a player who does not have prior Premier League experience.
The attacker is also what football experts call a “luxury player” as he is not one to track back, defend, and put in tackles.
For a team like Newcastle, who are in mid-table, even wide, attacking players have to contribute defensively for the team to get favourable results.
