Why Newcastle United should go for Jairo Riedewald in January

Defender Jairo Riedewald was heavily linked with a move away from Crystal Palace on transfer deadline day across Europe, but a move didn’t materialise.

The Dutchman, 23, has endured a torrid time at Crystal Palace since signing from Ajax in 2017. He managed 12 Premier League appearances in his debut season at Selhurst Park but shockingly didn’t play a single league game last term.

Considering that Jairo Riedewald didn’t make a single Premier League appearance in the 2018/19 for Crystal Palace, you can hardly forgive him for wanting to join a club where he would be a key player.

However, his transfer to Bundesliga side Paderborn on loan last week collapsed before the transfer window slammed shut, claims Football London.

Back in August 2018, the Chronicle had claimed that Newcastle United were interested in signing Jairo Riedewald and while a transfer didn’t happen then, they must reignite their interest during the January transfer window.

Newcastle may have sprung a surprise by beating Tottenham 1-0 away from home, but they have been poor overall this season, both defensively and offensively.

Despite new players arriving at the St. James’ Park in the summer, Steve Bruce’s squad lacks quality and depth to challenge for a top-half finish. So, taking a dip again in the transfer market certainly makes sense for Bruce.

One area that Bruce must address in the New Year is the defence, which has conceded five goals in four games thus far this campaign. Riedewald could be an option for Newcastle to consider as he is currently out of favour at Crystal Palace under Roy Hodgson.

A product of the Ajax academy, he can play in the middle of the park, in central defence or at full-back, giving Bruce some much-needed quality and depth to his squad.

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The three-cap Netherlands international can control the tempo of play from the middle of the park with his passing skills.

A tenacious player, he is composed in possession, strong in the air and .robust in the challenge with a good understanding of the game. Still only 23-years-old, Riedewald has the potential and a fresh start could be what he needs.

Verdict

At Newcastle, the Dutch defender would have to fight for a place rather than coming in to be the first choice. But he is a quality player who could make an instant impact at St. James’ Park and get his career back on track under the guidance of Bruce.