Antonio Nusa to Newcastle just took a new twist
Antonio Nusa has risen to a next level and has likely pushed himself out of Newcastle United's price range.
The 21-year-old was reportedly available for around £34million at the start of the summer transfer window, but the Magpies never formulated a bid and he stayed at RB Leipzig.
He had scored just five goals and provided four assists across all competitions last season, and a £43m move for Bazoumana Toure was sought instead.
Nusa enjoyed another highly impressive display as Norway beat Denmark 3-2 on Thursday, in an extension of the form that is bound to leave Newcastle massively regretting their decision.
The winger provided an assist for Erling Haaland's goal, making it three goals and three assists in just seven games for the youngster so far this season.
Nusa also enjoyed a superb World Cup with Norway, scoring a sensational goal against Ivory Coast in the round of 32.
Antonio Nusa's staggering stats vs Denmark
Nusa's talent has always been clear, with both Brentford and Tottenham having been willing to spend big money on him when he was at Club Brugge.
But medical issues saw both clubs pull out, with RB Leipzig taking the chance and reaping the benefits.
It has always felt as if an explosion was coming from the Norway international, and from the start of this season, Nusa may well be ready to take his place among the most exciting wingers in Europe.
His assist on Thursday night demonstrated just how much confidence he has, taking on his defender before rolling the ball in behind for Haaland to finish.
Confidence was the story of the night for Nusa. He attempted a staggering 13 dribbles - far more than anybody else on the pitch - and while he only completed five, such efficiency to get in the position is almost unheard of.
The 21-year-old was fouled twice and won 10 duels, too, completing three tackles and seven recoveries - the joint-most of anybody.
Should Nusa complete more of those dribbles and start to find the final ball on an even more consistent basis, Newcastle will seriously regret opting against his arrival in the summer.
Norwegian media hail Nusa
With Nusa under contract until 2029 at RB Leipzig, it is inevitable that there will be significant interest in the next two transfer windows.
Should Nusa continue in such a rich vein of form, European sides will be lining up to bid for the winger.
Reporting on Thursday's game, Norwegian outlet Dagbladet gave Nusa a seven out of 10 and wrote: "He was instrumental in a key shift in momentum leading up to Haaland's 2-0 goal.
"A beautiful assist. He was sharp the whole way and really enjoyed himself at Ullevaal."