Alan Shearer believes Newcastle United’s Premier League position could hinge on whether or not Marc Guehi joins the club.
The Magpies are preparing to start the new Premier League season against Southampton on Saturday, as their pursuit of Marc Guehi goes on in the background.
Newcastle have made a fourth bid for Guehi, with the hope being that a transfer breakthrough is now on the horizon. After a £60million offer was rejected, the new approach is closer to Crystal Palace’s £65million asking price.
It will be a huge deal if Newcastle can pull it off, with Eddie Howe keen to add a right-sided centre-back to his squad.
Marc Guehi is the top target, and Alan Shearer has suggested that the 24-year-old could help bring Champions League football back to St James’ Park.
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The Toon legend thinks a top four finish is possible – but only if Guehi arrives from Crystal Palace.
“No European football, I think it was all over – how great it was last year, their squad was tested, and they had so many injuries,” he said.
“They need to get Guehi, and if they do, I think it’ll be a real statement signing for them. If they do get that, I see them finishing maybe fourth.
“Great news not having to sell one of their big hitters due to the financial rules, particularly Isak. He’s a fantastic player. He’ll be challenging for the Golden Boot if he can stay injury free.
“I’ve got them finishing fourth. Come on!”
Winger is arguably more important for Newcastle
Shearer is right, Guehi would be a statement signing for Newcastle. He would be a major addition to Howe’s squad, and it would set up the Magpies’ back four for the foreseeable future.
However, I am not sure if he is the player who will define whether or not Newcastle finish in the top four.
Getting a winger is a bigger priority, as Toon officials search for someone who is an upgrade on Miguel Almiron and Jacob Murphy.
It remains to be seen if an attacker will arrive, with Noni Madueke the most heavily linked right now.
Madueke is a player who Howe likes, and could prove to be an interesting signing. However, the price might be an issue, with Chelsea valuing Madueke at £60million.
Isak set to shine again for Newcastle
Shearer is expecting another strong season from Alexander Isak, who scored 25 goals in all competitions last year. It was the best campaign of his career.
Hopefully he does even better this year, with the 24-year-old looking extremely sharp during pre-season. He netted three goals, but did miss a penalty against Girona.
Emil Krafth thinks Isak will get 25 goals again, and that would be a very helpful return as Newcastle go in search of a top four finish.
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