Newcastle United are reportedly set to rival Aston Villa for Liverpool outcast Joe Gomez in the summer transfer window.
The Magpies, under cash-rich Saudi owners, splashed big in the January transfer window and signed as many as five players to help Eddie Howe’s side which is battling against relegation. The club has seen a recent uptick in form, winning three out of their last five games to move out of the dreaded drop zone. Despite their stay in the top flight uncertain, the Toon Army seems to have already started planning for the future.
According to The Athletic, Newcastle United are expected to lead the chase for Joe Gomez should Liverpool decide to sell him when the transfer window reopens.
Joe Gomez, 24, has endured a frustrating 12-15 months at Liverpool, mainly due to injury problems. The English centre-back had barely featured for Jurgen Klopp’s side in the Premier League before completing 90 minutes in a 3-1 win over relegation-threatened Norwich City at Anfield on Saturday.
While he has kept himself fit this season, the arrival of Ibrahima Konate from RB Leipzig last year has pushed Gomez down in the defensive pecking order. Yet, the 24-year-old defender is not seeking to leave Liverpool in the summer, when he will have two years left on his contract, the report adds.
Joe Gomez to Newcastle United—Right option for the Magpies?
Newcastle United have already given a glimpse of their ambition in the last transfer window, but any further high-profile signings would be dependent on their position at the end of the season. For now, Eddie Howe’s focus will be entirely on guiding the Magpies to safety. Post that, he along with the club officials could plan their summer’s transfer strategy.
Having said that, though, the Toon Army have seemingly started scouring the market for reinforcements. The latest player to be linked with a move to St James’ Park is Liverpool’s Joe Gomez.
Gomez’s development at Anfield has stalled ever since he sustained the patella problems in 2020 that sidelined him for up to eight months. With the World Cup slated to happen later this year, the defender might be eyeing regular game time to give himself a chance of making it to the England squad.
A move to Newcastle United, in that regard, could really benefit Gomez. He may not be the high-profile player the Magpies have often been linked with since their big-money takeover last October, but the 24-year-old is an experienced defender with a glowing CV.
A quick, strong and competent defender, Joe Gomez can make an instant impact at St James’ Park and boost the club’s defence that has leaked goals at an alarming rate this season. As the England international’s contract at Liverpool runs until 2024, Newcastle will not need to break the bank for his signature. Thus, the Magpies must do everything possible to beat Aston Villa to the 24-year-old’s services.
