Journalist Gianluca Di Marzio has claimed he expects a number of Premier League teams, including Newcastle United, to make a move to sign Chelsea winger Hakim Ziyech.
Speaking in an interview with Dutch outlet Soccer News, the reporter was questioned about the future of the Morocco international, who was a subject of heavy interest from Ajax and AC Milan over the summer.
Asserting that the Serie A club are out of the question, Di Marzio spoke of Ajax’s persistence and possible interest from England.
“Ajax… That is another story, they are interested, because his heart is still in the Johan Cruijff ArenA,” he said.
“They would welcome a return. But after this World Cup… I do expect other Premier League teams to try at Chelsea, in terms of a loan. Newcastle, for example, which is aiming for a Champions League spot.
“And then it just depends on what the player wants, a rental period or a permanent deal. And I think Ziyech is going for the latter variant, so the question is which club can offer him the best project.”
Newcastle expected to move for Ziyech
Although he has never really established himself in a Chelsea shirt, Ziyech has shown that he is still more than capable to perform at the top level with his stunning run at the World Cup.
Playing down the right wing, the 29-year-old led Morocco to a sensational campaign out in Qatar.
After an emphatic start in the group stage, the attacker’s side knocked out Spain, one of the favourites, on penalties.
Beating Cristiano Ronaldo and Portugal 1-0 in the quarter-final, Morocco were drawn against France. Here they became the first African and Arab team to contest a World Cup semi-final – cementing themselves in history.
Despite a great performance from Ziyech and his teammates, they were defeated by Didier Deschamps’ side 2-0.
The Chelsea winger received huge plaudits for his performances at the tournament, sparking up interest ahead of the January window.
He was lauded by Netherlands manager Louis van Gaal as a ‘wonderful player’, whilst Morocco boss Walid Regragui claimed he’s ‘incredible’.
Therefore, with Ziyech wanting a move away from Stamford Bridge, Newcastle should look to bring in the talented playmaker – whether that be in the winter or summer window.
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