Premier League striker ‘high on Benitez’s shortlist’ according to fresh claims this afternoon

According to a story by the Shields Gazette this afternoon, Leicester City striker Islam Slimani is ‘high on Newcastle’s shortlist’ – an interesting claim following talk of us making a £20m move for an unnamed striker this week.

The Algerian striker became Leicester’s club record signing in the summer of 2016, sealing a £29m move from Sporting Lisbon, however he appears to be pushing for a move this month after being handed just one Premier League start all season.

The story in the Gazette does not claim that Slimani is the mystery striker who Newcastle are currently in talks with over a £20m transfer, but they do insist that he is a player Benitez holds a definite interest in this month.

He has been linked with loan moves to Besiktas, Watford and Chelsea and looks set to leave Leicester this month – whether that be temporarily or permanently.

Personally, I’d be more than happy to see him sign, but think a loan deal makes more sense and seems the more realistic outcome. Would Ashley be paying big money for a man turning 30 soon? I doubt it – although Slimani did cost Leicester the best part of £30m 18 months ago.

He’s a big strong striker whose dangerous in the air and has an eye for goal (40 goals in his previous two season at Lisbon and Leicester) – with him providing an ideal upgrade on Joselu and Mitrovic if you ask me.

With him (on loan) and a deal for a £20m striker arrival being mooted, it makes me wonder if Newcastle may just look into cashing in on Mitrovic AND Gayle this month.

It’s highly unlikely that all that business will get done, but Rafa has proven in the past that he’s happy to make big moves if it means improving his NUFC squad.

(Fancy writing for us? Send any articles/ideas over to us at [email protected] & we’ll get back to you!)

About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

One thought on “Premier League striker ‘high on Benitez’s shortlist’ according to fresh claims this afternoon

  1. As a Leicester fan I will be gutted if we lose Slimani. With a prolonged run in the side he would be a prolific goalscorer. He has decent pace, he is strong and knows where the goal is. He also works very hard. I think he has the potential to save Newcastle’s season. And if that keeps them in the Prem the outlay is negligible.
    Compare him to Ulloa who is essentially a donkey….with less skill and mobility.

      (Quote)

Leave a Reply

Your email address will not be published. Required fields are marked *