Scout Report – Gorka Guruzeta
For an ardent follower of the transfer news, it is not uncommon to see the name of Gorka Guruzeta being linked to every possible club in the Premier League. He has been linked with the likes of Chelsea and Arsenal but now Tottenham Hotspur and Newcastle United are believed to be front-runners in landing the young striker.
Currently playing for Atheltic Bilbao B, Guruzeta has been at the centre of attention for his efforts in front of the goal. Guruzeta has not played top-flight football as of now but his form this season has been truly spectacular and it comes as no surprise that so many clubs are targeting him. With that being said, let’s take a look at the prolific striker’s profile.
History
Born in 1996 in San Sebastian, Spain, Guruzeta joined Athletico Bilbao’s youth setup only in 2014 after a move from Antiguoko KE. His performances established him as one of the most exciting young talents in the country. He received a big break when he had to fill in for Asier Villalibre, who was sidelined due to an injury. Since then, there has been no looking back for the 21-year-old.
Guruzeta earned a promotion to the reserves in Segunda Division, following which he made his professional debut in a 1-1 home draw against CD Lugo. Interestingly, Guruzeta’s father was a footballer back in the day, and he played as a central defender for Real Sociedad.
Playing Style
Guruzeta clearly boasts of that lethal touch in front of the goal. The towering striker is over 6ft tall and can also operate in a wide role. His accuracy has seen him turn into one of Bilbao’s finest players at that level, and his dribbling skills are top-notch.
The striker is also quite adept at making quick decisions on the field and contributes defensively as well, which is a bit surprising for a player so young. Besides being lightning fast, Guruzeta also boasts of a physical strength and his height only acts as an advantage during aerial encounters.
Guruzeta’s Future
Guruzeta is clearly a talented player with immense potential and could be available for a bargain fee. Thus, it makes sense for both Tottenham and Newcastle to follow-up with their interest in him. Joining either club could benefit the player and offer him the kind of exposure he needs.
Spurs undoubtedly need more depth in their attack especially since Fernando Llorente is failing to keep up. It might seem tough for the Magpies to steal a move with a club like Tottenham interested but then the presence of fellow Spaniards Joselu, Javi Manquillo, Ayoze Perez and Benitez – as well as fellow Basque Mikel Merino – could prompt Guruzeta into signing for Newcastle.