Newcastle United have had a terrible start to preparations for their 2019-20 season as Rafa Benitez and star player Ayoze Perez have left the club, while the Magpies haven’t signed any new players yet, as the opening day of the Premier League draws nearer.
The Premier League side are looking to add some reinforcements, finally, and are interested in Hoffenheim striker Joelinton. Newcastle are willing to pay £36 million for the striker.
The German club, however, want £40 million for the Brazilian, who scored 11 goals and made 9 assists in the 2018-19 season. Newcastle United’s Premier League rivals Wolves are also reportedly interested in signing him.
Joelinton – Profile
The 22-year-old joined Hoffenheim in 2015, and spent two seasons on loan at Austrian club Rapid Vienna, and returned to the Wirsol Rhein-Neckar-Arena last season to play his first full season with the German club, where he impressed.
Joelinton’s contract with the German club expires in 2022, having signed an extension on his contract in 2018.
Newcastle sold Ayoze Perez for £30 million, which could be used to sign Joelinton ahead of the 2019-20 season.
Joelinton would be a top addition to Newcastle
Newcastle United are in desperate need of a good striker as the only first-team strikers in their squad are Dwight Gayle and Yoshinori Muto – the former who was on loan in the Championship last season, while the latter scored one goal in 18 appearances in his first season at the club.
Joelinton could be a fantastic signing for Newcastle as he has shown tremendous potential and talent in the 2018-19 season for Hoffenheim.
The striker is quick, powerful, and can dribble at opposition defences, while also having the strength to hold up the ball and allow his teammates to join him in attack.
The Brazilian had an average of two shots on goal per game last season, while averaging 1.7 dribbles in the Bundesliga last season.
The tall striker is also good in the air, averaging 2.3 aerial duels won last season. Joelinton is a player who has the flair and technical ability that one would expect of Brazilians, while also being strong and powerful.
Newcastle United could be a great team for the Brazilian to play at next season, and over time, he could become a great player for the club.