Newcastle United have reportedly set their sights on a deal for one of Marc Cucurella or Kieran Tierney as they aim to add a left-back to the squad.
A report today claimed that Eddie Howe’s side were looking to strike a loan deal for one of the defenders, potentially with an option to buy.
It remains to be seen whether either deal is possible, with a potential injury to Arsenal star Jurrien Timber threatening to block any exit for Tierney, but Newcastle will be faced with a decision over which player they should prioritise.
If both deals are possible, and it simply comes down to a choice over which player Howe would prefer to sign, Tierney should be selected ahead of Cucurella.
The Scotland international was one of Arsenal’s key players until the arrival of Oleksandr Zinchenko a year ago, and with Mikel Arteta now choosing to play with inverted rather than traditional fullbacks, the 26-year-old no longer fits their system. However, he could be the ideal signing for Newcastle right now.
Why Tierney instead of Cucurella?
Cucurella has been disappointing since his £62m move to Chelsea from Brighton last year, and there is more risk that he may not fit Newcastle’s system.
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Tierney would slot into the Newcastle side seamlessly, and with his strengths his ball-carrying and crossing ability on the overlap, he would excel as an attacking, but defensively strong, fullback.
With Harvey Barnes or Anthony Gordon playing as inside wingers on the left, Tierney could form a strong partnership with both going forward. The former Celtic star is strong in attacking situations and ranks highly amongst his peers for dribbling and shooting.
Cucurella received criticism last season for his defensive awareness as well as his poor contributions in attack, and if he cannot return to his form from his Brighton days, then he may not be a good option for Newcastle.
Tierney is a strong leader and was described as “fantastic” by his manager Mikel Arteta. If he were to join Newcastle, he could quickly become a popular figure and one that becomes a mainstay in the side for years to come.