Agbonlahor suggests twist in Newcastle United’s pursuit of Youri Tielemans amid big-money claim
Gabby Agbonlahor has suggested Youri Tielemans’ lack of “consistency” could mean Newcastle United are reluctant to sign him on “silly wages”.
The former Aston Villa striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old’s patchy form could cost him a big move in the summer window.
Tielemans has entered the final six months of his contract at Leicester City, meaning he can now negotiate a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs.
The Telegraph reported last month (28 December) that the Belgium international is “of interest” to the Magpies following a long-term injury to Jonjo Shelvey.
Tielemans has played 23 times for Leicester this season, notching four goals and one assist.
He was also an integral part of the Belgium side which failed to make their mark at the 2022 World Cup as they were knocked out at the group stage.
Mega-rich Newcastle are on the lookout for reinforcements as they prepare for European football next season.
Agbonlahor told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “He’s someone who will be attractive to Newcastle.
“But there’s a problem with Tielemans.
“Sometimes you watch him at Leicester and he’s outstanding, and then with Belgium he wasn’t a big part of their World Cup.
“He can score a screamer one week, and then you won’t see him for five or six games.
“Consistency is a problem for him, and that could cost him the big move that he wants.
“Because he’s on a free transfer, he’s gonna want silly wages – and Newcastle might not want to pay that.”
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