Newcastle leading the race for ‘another Lascelles’ after Telegraph update – pundit
Newcastle United have “better options” than Joe Rodon in the January transfer market, according to Kevin Phillips.
The former Premier League striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed Rodon, 24, is not an upgrade on the current crop of centre-halves at St. James’ Park.
Football Insider revealed earlier this month (4 December) the Wales international has his heart set on leaving Spurs.
The source has updated today that Newcastle lead the race to sign the Spurs player in next month’s window.
Rodon is prepared to leave the north London club on loan or permanently in search of regular game time.
His contract with Tottenham runs until the summer of 2025.
When asked by Football Insider for his assessment of the Rodon’s credentials, Phillips said: “I don’t think he’s an upgrade on [Jamaal] Lascelles.
“I think he’s similar to Lascelles, to be honest.
“Rodon would come in and do a job. He is a good player but is he better than what Newcastle have already got? Not necessarily.
“I would like to see a player come in who has a bit of experience and nouse about him. Someone who can come in and organise.
“I’m always dubious about players who come on loan to a club that is struggling at the bottom of the table. Are they really coming to fight when it is not their club?
“I think there’s better options out there than Rodon. At the same time, I understand why they are going for it.”
In other news, Howe has made up his mind on signing forward in January after £6m Newcastle reveal.