Newcastle should move for 23-year-old instead of ‘brilliant’ transfer target

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Newcastle United have been linked with a number of defenders in the transfer window, and the latest target appears to be Joachim Andersen from Crystal Palace.

A report has indicated that Palace will be willing to lower their £40m price tag to sell the 27-year-old to Newcastle, who are keen to add a centre-back to their ranks.

However, they may be better off pursuing another linked target in Jean-Clair Todibo. The 23-year-old has now been linked with Manchester United, but Eddie Howe was interested in the centre-back before, and could reignite this interest before another club swoops in.

Although Andersen, who has been described as “brilliant,” by Micah Richards, could be a very good signing, Todibo is perhaps the best option both immediately and for the long term.

Todibo the better investment

Whilst Andersen would arrive as an option with experience in the Premier League, having impressed at Fulham and Crystal Palace, Todibo is arguably already the better player, and given that he is four years younger, he could form a long-term partnership with Sven Botman.

When it comes to ability on the ball, Todibo is levels ahead of Andersen. The 23-year-old ranks in the top 20% of centre-backs for pass volume, completion and progression, highlighting his elite ability to distribute the ball.

Andersen, meanwhile, ranks in the bottom 14% of centre-backs for pass completion. In this current Newcastle side, he may be too chaotic when trying to play at the back, particularly when compared to the calm and composed figure of Todibo.

The Denmark international only exceeds Todibo in experience and aerial ability, and so may be a better immediate replacement for Fabian Schar, who was impressive last season. However, if Newcastle are to add an expensive defender to their ranks, Todibo has the quality to become a starting option for at least the next five years, with Andersen more of a short-term purchase.

Overall, there are merits in buying either defender and strengthening the back line, but Howe should seriously consider a move for Todibo before spending big money on the Crystal Palace star.