Newcastle still need to strengthen their attacking options, with Alexander Isak refusing to play for the club again and Anthony Elanga being the only forward incoming. The Premier League season kicks off in just three days, and Eddie Howe will want to hit the ground running in the new campaign. Fans will be glad to hear that Newcastle United are now edging closer to a move for Jacob Ramsey, amidst other Premier League interest.
Newcastle United Closing in on Attacking Reinforcement Amidst Alexander Isak Issues
Jacob Ramsey a Priority Target for Magpies
David Ornstein, of The Athletic, has revealed that Newcastle are starting talks with Aston Villa over a permanent move for Ramsey, ahead of their clash in Birmingham this weekend. He reports that there has been interest from abroad and within the Premier League, including from West Ham United.
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Despite a move to London offering the opportunity to play under Graham Potter (who admires Ramsey, and “vice versa”), Newcastle United are “emerging as his preferred destination”. Their project under Howe (who is a “big fan”) is more appealing to the 24-year-old. He is a “priority target” for the Magpies, as they need to strengthen in attack.
Where Will Jacob Ramsey Play for Newcastle United?
It is unclear exactly where Ramsey would fit in at Newcastle. He often plays as an attacking midfielder, though Howe plays with three flat central midfielders rather than a ten. The Englishman is perfectly capable of playing as a central midfielder, though he would surely struggle to displace one of Bruno Guimarães, Joelinton, and Sandro Tonali.
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He also plays as a left-sided wide player, which could be where he finds minutes, particularly at the start of the new season. With Isak not playing, Callum Wilson‘s contract up, and the Geordies failing to land Hugo Ekitike, their only natural striker option is William Osula. However, Anthony Gordon has often played down the middle under Howe, leaving a free spot on the left-wing for Ramsey (though he would have to compete with Harvey Barnes). A front-three of Ramsey, Gordon, and Elanga could become familiar this year.