According to reports in Germany, Newcastle have shown interest in Eintracht Frankfurt striker Sebastien Haller once again this summer.
It wouldn’t be a transfer window if we weren’t linked with the Frenchman – a player who seems to have taken the mantle off our old pal Bas Dost when it comes to being linked with a move to Tyneside, but a striker we seem to have genuinely had our eye on for a few years now.
It goes without saying that any transfer links should be taken with a pinch of salt right now, with Rafa AND Ashley’s future not yet clear.
That said, it’s nonsense to suggest Benitez won’t have targets in mind and players he’s set to move for should a new deal be agreed over the next few weeks. We know how meticulous his planning is – no matter what his fate may be.
Back to Haller. His name was first mentioned mid-way through our promotion season back in 2017 – at a time where he was playing in Holland – and he’s since gone on to enjoy two impressive season in the Bundesliga.
He bagged 13 goals and 7 assists for Frankfurt over the 2017/18 season, but his latest campaign in Germany has been hugely impressive, seeing him score 20 and assist 12 in all competitions.
Could he be a younger, Salomon Rondon alternative that Mike Ashley may sanction a move for this summer if Rafa stays? His age (24) and overall profile (6ft 3′, mobile for his size and a goalscorer) suggests he’s a player who would not only fit nicely into Rafa Benitez’s side, but also Mike Ashley’s buying policy. He would not come cheap, however.
A big-money move for Hoffenheim star Joelinton has been touted, suggesting the money is there, so maybe a deal for a slightly more proven goalscorer in Haller could be on the cards if Ashley does buck his ideas up and decide to back Rafa.
We shall see, but it’s time we sorted out the takeover situation and a new contract for Rafa first.
Who is chasing these players and willing to pay if a take over is potentially happening …. doesn’t make sense
Dean(Quote)