Newcastle ‘could be about to beat Sunderland’ to Calvert-Lewin deal
Newcastle may rain on Sunderland’s parade by making a move to sign free agent striker Dominic Calvert-Lewin.
That is according to former England international striker Matt Le Tissier, who told Football Insider exclusively that Leeds and Burnley would also consider making a move for the former Everton man.
Calvert-Lewin‘s injury-plagued spell at Goodison Park came to an end this summer after a season in which the 28-year-old scored just three times.
The England international has struggled to stay healthy during what should have been the peak of his career.
But with so few viable options available at the number nine position this summer, Calvert-Lewin has emerged as a surprise target for Man United, whilst also being linked with a move to the North Eastern clubs and Aston Villa.
Calvert-Lewin a good ‘second string’ option for Newcastle
This article contains exclusive comment from former Southampton and England striker Matt Le Tissier.
The Magpies cannot afford to be picky this summer after missing out on moves for several players, including strikers Hugo Ekitike, who chose to move to Liverpool, and Man United-bound Benjamin Sesko.
And following the departure of Callum Wilson to West Ham, Newcastle need a back-up to Alexander Isak, who himself may be on the move if he gets his wish.
Le Tissier told Football Insider that Calvert-Lewin could end up at St. James’ Park, but it depended on what happened with other strikers this summer.
He said: “It depends what happens with Isak, it depends what happens with Sesko, where he ends up.
“I can’t see him as Newcastle’s first choice. He might go in as Sunderland’s first choice, possibly.
“Where else would he be suited to? Would he be going as a Leeds first choice, a Burnley first choice? I don’t know.
“It’s difficult because it’s all about the fitness with him, but I think he’ll end up going somewhere that already has a good first-choice centre-forward that just needs a decent second string to sit behind him.
“I think that’s where he may end up this season. If that’s at Newcastle, he’ll be behind the Isak if he stays there.”
Newcastle target Jan Paul van Hecke
Whilst all the recent talk has been about their issues at striker, Eddie Howe’s side also needs some upgrades at the back.
Fabian Schar and Sven Botman have both had fitness issues in recent seasons and the club are set to compete on four fronts next season.
Mick Brown told Football Insider exclusively that Newcastle are keen on Brighton’s Jan Paul van Hecke.
The Magpies may hope to make the most of Dan Burn’s time on the South Coast in the hopes he can convince the Dutch defender to make the move up north.