Charlie Austin or Andy Carroll? Newcastle need to continue improving their forward options, and both strikers have been linked with the Magpies.
Joelinton became the club’s record signing on Tuesday, and will be Steve Bruce’s main man in attack. But we need other options. Currently, all we have is Dwight Gayle and Yoshinori Muto. The former has been heavily linked with a move away from St James’ Park, while the latter has struggled in England.
Bruce will want an attacker he can trust, which is why we should pursue Austin over Carroll.
According to the Chronicle, we have been offered the chance to sign the striker by Southampton, while they also report that Carroll is an option on a free after his West Ham release.
Ever since he left, we’ve been linked with a move for Carroll. But this year it seems more possible. Considering he’d not cost a penny, Carroll could finally return home.
But Austin would be the better option. He’s a poacher. Wherever he’s been, he’s scored goals. They’re not always flash, but Austin knows how to be in the right place at the right time.
Carroll isn’t as prolific, never hitting double figures again since he left Newcastle. And then there’s his injury record. While Austin has had his problems, they’re nothing compared to Carroll’s fitness woes. Signing him would be a risk, and one that is perhaps not worth taking.
The former number nine would be cheaper, but Austin will hardly cost a fortune. He’s no longer wanted at Southampton, and is entering the final year of his contract.
Both players are 30, entering the twilight years of their careers. If Newcastle are going to take a punt on one, it should be Austin.
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