Journalist claims NUFC are now ‘in talks’ with Bournemouth to complete surprise part-exchange

According to Alan Nixon, Newcastle are in talks over a player plus cash deal to sign Bournemouth striker Josh King – a move which could see Matt Ritchie return to the South-Coast this summer.

With Nixon being a writer for the Sun, it’s wise to take this once with a hefty pinch of salt, however it’s an interesting if not bizarre transfer story that’s being reported today.

The story claims the two clubs have now “opened discussions” over the deal, claiming that a part-exchange is now being considered with Newcastle preferring not to pay King’s alleged £20m asking price.

Ritchie, despite being an integral part of our team in the Championship, showed his limitations last season so I do think he’s replaceable, however I’m not convinced in the slightest that Benitez is ready to let him go.

We’re already a little short on proven top flight wingers too, so whilst the arrival of King would give us another option up top, it’d leave a big gap to fill down our right hand side.

Some have suggested that we could then use money from Mitrovic’s sale to sign Townsend, meaning a potential front three of Kenedy, King and Townsend (IF we could get Kenedy on loan for another season), however it’s all hypothetical at this stage and, as good as it sounds, probably unrealistic to think it would work that way.

King is also far from proven. He’s got pace and power and was outstanding in 2016/17 – ending the season with 16 goals in the league – but he only managed 8 last season. His versatility is useful and he may be well suited to our counter attacking system, but he’s still got a lot to prove before we call someone like him the answer to our goalscoring problems.

Would you entertain this potential part-exchange folks?

(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.

2 thoughts on “Journalist claims NUFC are now ‘in talks’ with Bournemouth to complete surprise part-exchange

  1. Definitely a brave statement on your part Olly, claiming that Ritchie showed his limitations last season.
    Ritchie appears to be one of the untouchables when it comes to certain fans, like Mitro, Lascelles and Shola.
    You’re taking your life in your hands there mate.

      (Quote)

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