The latest name to be a linked with a move to Newcastle is Gelson Martins. AS first reported the interest on Tuesday evening, with the Chronicle adding that the Magpies have opened talks with Atletico Madrid.
The Portuguese winger joined Atleti in the summer of 2018, arriving on a free after getting his Sporting contract terminated.
Of course, it would be a loan move for Martins. But regardless, he’s an exciting player that would certainly get the St James’ Park crowd off their seats.
Things haven’t worked out for Martins in Madrid, but that does not mean he isn’t talented. Far better players than him have struggled to match the demands of Diego Simeone, who is notoriously intense as a manager.
The 23-year-old was brilliant for Sporting, scoring 13 goals last season. This is the kind of attacking threat that Rafa Benitez is craving.
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Newcastle fans excited by Martins interest
Newcastle fans have been burnt too often. While the prospect of Martins arriving is certainly exciting, not many are getting too far ahead of themselves.
With Benitez’s future reportedly depending on what happens between now and the end of the transfer window, this is the kind of deal that would surely help keep the Spaniard around.
Whether it actually happens remains to be seen… As always, don’t get excited until he’s pictured in black and white.