Newcastle have been linked with Chelsea’s young striker Tammy Abraham on numerous occasions in the past, and this summer seems to be no exception.
Having been victorious, however, and re-established as a Premier League club, the Midlands side were expected to be in the box-seat to seal either a permanent deal, or another season-long loan.
But an Instagram posted by Abraham, could suggest that he has played his last game in a Villa shirt, and has left fans wondering what his next move will be.
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Could he have another offer? Is he simply looking for somewhere other than Villa? Is he having to stay at Chelsea due to their transfer ban?
A lot of questions to be answered, but certainly his post will have tongues wagging.
Abraham may be forced to stay at Chelsea if the lose their transfer ban appeal
The likely scenario will see him staying at Chelsea – at least in the short-term – as they await the outcome of an appeal the London club have lodged against their embargo.
If they lose that appeal, it may mean Abraham – as well as most of their other senior players – staying put, as they look to keep as many playing options open to them when they cannot strengthen their squad.
If the appeal is successful, the Stmford Bridge club will surely bring in players, with the impending departure of talisman Eden Hazard.
Abraham may well, in that scenario, be seen as surplus to requirements, and having been on loan a number of times, he could make a permanent switch this time.
Newcastle are sure to be mentioned in any conversation about the player, whether it is temporary or long-term, but it remains to be seen what the Magpies plans are, with everything seemingly on hold at present.
But it is worth remembering that Abraham struggled to score goals last time he was playing in the top flight consistently, and although he is more mature now, and has more first team experience under his belt, he would still represent something of an untested gamble.
One thing Newcastle cannot afford, is bringing in a striker that will be goal-shy, particularly after the success of Salomon Rondon at St James’ Park last season.
As we have stated on many occasions now – and at the risk of sounding like a broken record – there is so much work to be done at our club, and so little time to do it. We need movement on the big decisions that need to be made, and it needs to happen immediately.