Newcastle United want to make a bid for creative striker Alassane Plea after having added him to their shortlist, according to both Christian Falk and Fabrizio Romano. The Frenchman has yet to reach the heights of which he is known to be capable for Borussia Monchengladbach this season, but his ability is undeniable and would provide the Magpies with some much-needed depth at the focal point of their attack.
Newcastle United Want to Bid for Alassane Plea
The Striker Would Be a Great Addition at St James’ Park After Two Previous Deals
Eddie Howe is looking to bolster his side with the funds made available to him by the club’s wealthy owners. Being the richest team in football, Newcastle essentially only have financial fair play rules standing between them and countless big-money signings, but the arrivals have already started on Tyneside.
On January 7th, the Magpies confirmed the signing of former Tottenham Hotspur and Atletico Madrid fullback Kieran Trippier, who would add much to both their attack and defence. At the age of 31 and having played at the very top of the game, including a Champions League final with Spurs in 2019, Trippier will provide the Northern English side with some vital winning experience as they look to storm up the Premier League table with their new-found financial backing.
Next, we saw Chris Wood jump ship to St James’ Park from relegation rivals Burnley. The New Zealand international was signed to provide attacking depth, and his addition is especially important after star striker Callum Wilson picked up a fairly lengthy injury.
Should the Magpies manage to complete the deal for Plea, he would provide another dimension to their game. Playing somewhere in between the usual roles of Wilson–a poacher–and Joelinton–who recently found form in a slightly deeper position–the 28-year-old would give Eddie Howe an extra creative outlet going forwards.
With Allan Saint-Maximin already quite the goalscoring threat, a front three of the French duo and another winger would work well. Alternatively, having a more creative striker in his ranks would allow Eddie Howe more confidence in utilising his preferred 4-4-2 formation, one that worked so well as he took Bournemouth through the English football pyramid all the way to the Premier League.
Newcastle are not alone in their interest in Plea, however. Zenit St Petersburg have made an enquiry about the striker’s availability, with talks over a potential move ongoing. It remains to be seen whether the English club will be able to attract a top talent despite their lowly league position.
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