Newcastle in pole position to land PL attacker, manager green lights exit – report
By Abigail Withey
Newcastle are in pole position to land Liverpool attacker Sheyi Ojo on a season-long loan deal this summer, according to a report.
The Independent has revealed that Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez has identified the 20-year-old as a player to help his squad succeed in their return to the Premier League next season.
The newspaper claims that the Premier League’s attack-minded winger has also attracted interest from Burnley, in addition to the Magpies’ north-east rivals Middlesbrough, who were recently relegated.
It is said that despite being on the radar of other clubs, the young striker has favoured a move to St. James’ Park over the coming transfer window instead.
The report also added that Reds manager Jurgen Klopp has given the green light for Ojo to exit Anfield for the 2017/18 season.
Since move to Merseyside in 2014, Ojo has spent time away from Liverpool on loan at both Wigan and Wolves.
The 20-year-old has made a total of 13 appearances for the club in his three years at the club, and Ojo had an especially difficult campaign during the previous season.
In the 2016/17 season, the starlet made just two appearances for Klopp’s side, with one start and one showing from the bench.
Football Insider verdict:
Newcastle would be wise to sign Ojo as the 20-year-old will provide the pace that Benitez is searching for in order to drive a successful campaign upon the club’s return to top flight football. At the age of 20, the England youth international would provide a long-term solution for the Magpies if given the playing time he was severely lacked at Liverpool. For Benitez, Ojo would also slot into the squad as a replacement for fellow left winger Yoan Gouffran, who is yet to sign a new contract with the Tynesiders. If Ojo’s talents are nurtured at St. James’ Park it is likely that he will truly shine in the top flight competition.
In other Newcastle transfer news, they are close to tabling a bid for this Ligue 1 attacker.
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