Why Newcastle United should definitely bring in Yacine Brahimi
According to the Sun, Newcastle United are interested in making a move for FC Porto winger Yacine Brahimi. The Algerian is out of contract in the summer, which has alerted a number of Premier League clubs given his superb form this season.
West Ham United and Everton have also been linked to the player and though Newcastle United have been short on spending funds, there’s no denying the Magpies are in dire need of some offensive firepower.
Both Everton and West Ham invested heavily in the summer while Rafa Benitez struggled to land his targets. The 28-year-old poses an ideal option for the Magpies, who have been in dreadful form this season. The Tyneside club picked up a win this weekend but are very much in danger of once again dropping to the Championship.
Brahimi has been in stellar form for the Portuguese side this season. The Algerian has scored 2 goals in 10 league appearances for FC Porto this campaign. He has also scored 1 goal in 1 Super Cup appearance while providing an assist in the Champions League as well.
Generally deployed down the left wing, Brahimi is capable of playing anywhere across the frontline. He is also comfortable sitting behind the striker as a central attacking midfielder. He would certainly fit into Benitez’s 4-4-1-1 formation used this season.
The Algerian would provide them with a little bit of a spark and flair in the final third. The Mapgies have failed to threaten, having scored just 9 goals in the league so far. Brahimi is capable of running at defenders and dragging them out of their position.
This should see the likes of Salomon Rondon and Ayoze Perez receive more free space through the middle. His directness and dribbling ability will certainly hand the defenders a tough time at the back. The winger is also capable of sending delicious crosses into the box.
Rondon has not been given the right kind of service since his arrival from West Brom and Brahimi will certainly help Rondon receive more scoring opportunities in the air. Rafa Benitez can also use him in the other areas of the pitch given the need and his versatility to do so.
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Newcastle United should definitely beat their competitors to the signing of Yacine Brahimi. Though they may be reluctant to shell out the fee, there’s no other choice at the moment. The Magpies are in serious risk of facing relegation and Rafa Benitez must strengthen his ranks when the transfer window reopens in January.