Former Newcastle United target Aaron Ramsey is now available to sign for free this summer.
The Welshman has had his Juventus contract terminated, ending a rotten three year spell in Turin. Ramsey is now a free agent, and needs to find a new club heading into the World Cup with Wales.
The 31-year-old was linked with a move to St James’ Park in January, as the club eyed new recruits to guide the team to safety. It was even claimed by the Times that Newcastle were ‘hopeful’ of signing the midfielder on loan.
Of course, that didn’t happen. Newcastle looked elsewhere, and Ramsey went to Rangers.
He played 13 times up in Glasgow, scoring twice. Sadly for him, his time at Rangers will be remembered for missing the decisive penalty in the Europa League final. That was his final kick of a ball for the Scottish side.
Now Ramsey is available for absolutely nothing, and pundit Dean Saunders thinks Newcastle should make a move for him.
Dean Saunders on Aaron Ramsey to Newcastle
Ramsey’s future has been discussed on TalkSPORT, and Saunders has named Newcastle as his preferred destination for the former Arsenal ace.
“I’d like to see him at Newcastle,” he said.
“I think Newcastle’s the train you want to jump on – or Forest.”
While Saunders might want to see Ramsey at St James’ Park, or the City Ground, Eddie Howe should steer clear.
Ramsey is not what Newcastle need
There’s no denying that Ramsey is a good player. He proved as much at Arsenal and he’s still a star for Wales on the international stage.
He’s won trophy after trophy, boasting a Serie A medal and three FA Cups. His ability isn’t up for debate – he simply isn’t what Newcastle need.
Had he arrived in January, it would have given the club a lift. Ramsey is a big name who the fans would have backed.
But our situation has changed. We are much more stable, and are looking for players for the present and the future. Ramsey is not that. He is 31, has had plenty of fitness problems, and will only have eyes on the World Cup this winter.
Do we need a new centre midfielder at the moment? We have plenty of options in the middle, including Ramsey’s former Arsenal teammate Joe Willock. Signing Ramsey would only limit his opportunities in the short-term.
It’s no surprise to see pundits wanting Ramsey to join Newcastle. Saunders said the same thing about Gareth Bale. But while they play fantasy football, the owners are dealing with sensible soccer, and will know to avoid a Ramsey on a free.
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