Newcastle United have reportedly asked Burnley about possibly signing Dwight McNeil this summer.
The Clarets’ squad is in danger of being ripped apart following the club’s relegation to the Championship. They’ve already lost key players in James Tarkowski and Ben Mee, and now Nick Pope is being linked with a move to Newcastle.
But he isn’t the only Burnley player the Magpies are looking at.
Eddie Howe likes McNeil
According to 90min, the Magpies have asked about McNeil, with Eddie Howe a big fan of the winger.
The 22-year-old is probably Burnley’s most sellable asset, despite enduring a difficult season last time out.
But McNeil is an exciting wide player who could add more quality on the flanks. It’s certainly an area that we need to improve in ahead of the 2022/23 campaign.
We’ve been linked with big names like Moussa Diaby, and McNeil would be a much more low key recruit. However, bringing him in could prove to be astute business.
He’s capable of playing on either flank, and already has a great understanding with Newcastle striker Chris Wood.
During their time together at Burnley, McNeil provided 10 assists in the Premier League for Wood, who has struggled for goals since his January move to St James’ Park.
Bringing in McNeil could get more out of the New Zealand forward, and ease Newcastle’s need for a new striker.
Wood would surely be receptive to the deal, having highly praised McNeil in the past after he scored a screamer against Everton last year.
“He’s an extraordinary talent,” Wood said in March 2021.
“He’s got that in abundance and pulls it out the bag when needed.”
Newcastle also ask about Maxwel Cornet
McNeil isn’t the only Burnley attacker Newcastle are taking a look at. 90min add that Howe’s side have also asked about Maxwel Cornet.
He had a brilliant debut season at Turf Moor, scoring nine goals and providing one assist. Had he not missed 12 Premier League games, his influence may have given Burnley a better shot at survival.
But they’ll be in the Championship next season, and that means Cornet could be on the way out. The 25-year-old reportedly has a relegation release clause of £17.5million, which will certainly tempt Newcastle.
Targeting relegated players is certainly a decent tactic for Newcastle, but signing too many could be a dangerous game.
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