Newcastle United are monitoring Belgium winger Jeremy Doku ahead of splashing the cash again this summer.
According to Chronicle Live, the 19-year-old who is on the Magpies’ radar is being monitored by head of recruitment Steve Nickson and his scouting department.
The same report also states that Doku could form part of ‘another spending spree’ as PIF look to strengthen every position in Eddie Howe’s side, during the summer transfer window.
Doku has been on the Toon Army’s radar before, but knee and hamstring injuries saw the Geordies cool their interest in the £22m-rated Belgian.
The former Anderlecht youngster has two goals from 10 international caps and will no doubt be targeting a place in Roberto Martinez’s World Cup squad, which takes place in Qatar this winter.
Doku has the versatility to play anywhere across the forward line and impressed former Newcastle striker Craig Bellamy during their time together at Anderlecht.
But the Welshman did give an indication of how the teenager needs to be carefully managed.
Speaking to the Central Club podcast, Bellamy said: “He was a difficult player.
“Antwerp boy, tough kid, beyond talented.
“Don’t mess with him – you can’t talk down to him, because he’ll just go the other way.
“Get him onside, let him know you care about him because if you care about him, he’ll play like anything for you.”
Bellamy’s comments highlight that Doku is the type of player that needs to be loved by his manager.
In Howe, Newcastle seemingly possess one of the best man managers around who is capable of getting the best out of his players.
But one thing the former Bournemouth manager won’t want in his changing room is individuals who disrupt the seemingly tight-knit group which is being gelled together at St James’ Park.
At the age of 19, Doku is still a raw talent that needs to be nurtured and have his vast potential fulfilled.
But after missing 18 games already this season through injury, Howe, Nickson and the club’s Saudi-led consortium will have to weigh up whether Doku fits the type of profile that can help propel Newcastle to the next level.
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