Newcastle United made a big decision this summer.
Midfield was the area in which the club most needed to strengthen and, eventually, they made Sandro Tonali their big signing.
Sadly, it would be safe to say that move is yet to work out. Indeed, even before the ban from football that will stretch into next season, the Italy international was hardly totally convincing.
Given the midfield issues of this season, it’s all the more galling. While Lewis Miley has shone during his breakout season in the first-team, the teenager would surely not be having to play so often if things were going perfectly to plan.
Before signing Tonali, there were a host of links of other players. Now, one of the names Newcastle reportedly considered could be set for a move elsewhere.
Eberechi Eze transfer news: Newcastle target could join Man City
Crystal Palace midfielder Eberechi Eze was thought to have been under consideration before the Magpies eventually moved for Tonali, albeit the £70m asking price may have proven prohibitive.
It now seems another club could land the 25-year-old. According to The Independent, Tottenham are interested in the England international but there is now a belief amongst the clubs he favours a move to Man City, who remain keen on his services.
Newcastle transfer news: Big summer expected
Whether it proves to be Eze or not, Newcastle fans can reportedly expect some major incomings this summer as the PIF project continues.
Despite all the FFP frustrations of the January window, reports from iNews last month claimed there was likely to be a wide-scale rebuild of Eddie Howe’s squad.
It’s a shame City look to be closing in on Eze, who has been hailed as “mesmerising” by teammate Joel Ward. His five goals and one assist, as well as 2.1 key passes per game (via WhoScored), in a poor Palace team this season would surely be most welcome on Tyneside.
Still, there are reasons to be positive ahead of the summer window.
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