Going head-to-head with Premier League rivals Chelsea, Newcastle United are now reportedly racing to sign a Champions League captain for Eddie Howe.
Howe calls for "aggression" against Arsenal
Although Newcastle have endured a slow start to their Premier League campaign, Sunday’s meeting with Arsenal represents the perfect opportunity for the Magpies to truly get going. Howe’s side have had the Gunners’ number in the past and there’s no doubt that St James’ Park will be rocking after the manager called for “aggression” from his players.
“If we’re not in that sweet spot of aggression and competitiveness, we don’t play the same way. I think we have players that really respond to that type of game.
“Of course there’s a balance depending on what style of game we’re in. I’d like to think we can navigate our way through a game and utilise all the skills we have in our psychological framework to help us win.”
With Anthony Gordon back in contention, it will be interesting to see whether Nick Woltemade is once again forced to come from the bench or if he’ll get the chance to impress for the first time alongside the former Everton winger.
Speaking about the towering forward, Howe recently told reporters: “We don’t play with a ten, so I see him as a nine. But a nine who plays differently to others we’ve had. You can’t compare Nick to Callum Wilson, two totally different profiles. Both can be effective.
“It’s about utilising strengths and teammates understanding how Nick plays. He showed creative flair and link play against Bradford – really impressed with him.”
Of course, what could help get the best out of Newcastle’s big-money signing is a trip back into the transfer market. And that could see the Magpies swoop in ahead of Chelsea to sign a Champions League captain.
Newcastle join Manuel Locatelli race
As reported by Caught Offside, Newcastle have now joined the race to sign Manuel Locatelli from Juventus alongside Premier League rivals Chelsea. The Italian giants are naturally reluctant to sell their captain, but accept that an offer in the region of €40m (£35m) is likely to leave them with little choice next year.
Newcastle’s starting midfield is one of the strongest that the Premier League has to offer, but the quality beyond that may be a slight concern for those at St James’ Park. The addition of Locatelli would solve that problem.
Minutes
2,822
3,271
Progressive Passes
294
271
Progressive Carries
33
64
Ball Recoveries
141
188
Dubbed an “intelligent passer” by analyst Ben Mattinson last year, it’s clear to see how Locatelli would thrive alongside Guimaraes. The two midfield controllers could unlock a new approach entirely for Howe, whose side has struggled to break down low blocks in the current campaign.
With 294 progressive passes to his name last season, Locatelli would be an excellent addition to Newcastle’s midfield. Whether the Magpies can lure the Juventus captain away from Turin remains to be seen, however.
