Three reasons why Newcastle must replace 27-year-old with Championship sensation

COMMENT By Will Butcher

Newcastle would avoid relegation and could even finish in the top half of the Premier League table if they lure Leeds midfielder Ronaldo Vieira to Tyneside.

The 19-year-old starred for the Yorkshire giants last season as they went within a whisker of finishing in the top six of the Championship play-offs last season.

However, Vieira missed out on a place in the Premier League as the Whites eventually finished in seventh place, running out of steam towards the end of the 2016-17 campaign.

Now, the England Under-20 international could be tempted to look for an instant promotion this summer if Newcastle become interested in the teenager.

Football Insider examines just how the youngster could become a crucial part of Newcastle's side in their fight against relegation, with the Toon looking to finish as high up the league as possible.

Here are three reasons why, with a 27-year-old midfielder way below the required standard:

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Championship starlet

At just 19 years of age, Vieira was one of Leeds most consistent performers in the middle of the park last season under the guidance of Garry Monk.

Showing guile and a determination to win the ball back in midfield, Vieira's array of passing and tough-tackling nature saw him earn a place in England's Under-20 side.

Bringing that to Newcastle would see the Magpies add a steeliness to their midfield and a fight to their side that would help them when the times are tough.

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Compliments Shelvey

England international Shelvey needs a player alongside him that will do the dirty work, in order to give the former Liverpool and Charlton ace license to strut his stuff.

In Vieira, Shelvey would find the perfect midfield partner as his hard-working ethic would see the Toon consistently win the ball back and feed the ball-playing midfielder.

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Jack Colback

Flame-haired midfielder Colback was caught out in Newcastle's midfield last season, coming under constant criticism from fans.

The former Sunderland midfielder failed to impress fans as he seemed unwilling to pass the ball forwards and would rather take the safe option by passing the ball backwards.

Selling the 27-year-old and replacing him with Vieira would be a huge step forward for the Toon in their bid to avoid an instant return to the Championship.

In other Newcastle transfer news, the Toon should look to steal in and sign this 55-time international.

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