Report: Newcastle weigh up move for PL winger, club keen to start contract talks
By Harvey Byrne
Newcastle are weighing up a move for Burnley midfield wide-man Scott Arfield, according to a report.
The Sun have reported in their print edition on Wednesday (page 52) that the north east giants are looking at the 28-year-old Canada international if they win promotion back to the Premier League.
The experienced midfield ace will enter the final year of his contract this summer.
However, it is also claimed that Burnley are now keen to hold contract talks with one of their key payers due to Rafa Benitez’ side’s interest.
Scotland-born Arfield provides versatility to the teams in which he is a part of due to his ability to play across the midfield three.
But, he is more natural on the left and has played 21 of his 30 appearances for Sean Dyche’s team there this season.
The attacker has returned just one goal and one assist for the Lancashire club in this campaign, but he is still considered a gifted player with the work rate to go alongside.
Newcastle currently play Yoan Gouffran on the left side of their midfield, but with the 30 year old’s contract set to end this summer, Benitez may be seeking alternative targets.
Football Insider verdict:
Arfield would certainly be a solid signing for Newcastle if they do win promotion. However, he is unlikely to bring a sense of excitement to fans, or to the team due to the way that he plays. The Canadian doesn’t have the pace or trickery to beat opposing defenders, but he does have a very good delivery. His return this season for Burnley has not been great and there may be better players out there for Benitez to target. Additionally, the north east club may look to sign Christan Atsu on a permanent from Chelsea to provide the missing pace and unpredictability to their team.
In other Newcastle transfer news, the Toon are close to sealing this attacker move.
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