Newcastle United have been linked with signing Christian Pulisic in January, but he reportedly wants to stay at Chelsea.
The American winger was a target for the Magpies during the summer, but failed to secure a move to St James’ Park.
The Daily Mail have now reported that Eddie Howe’s side are still interested in Pulisic heading into January, as they look to improve their options out wide.
Newcastle needed a winger in the summer, and are still light in that position. However, the need for a new addition has decreased courtesy of Miguel Almiron’s sensational form.
But Newcastle are still looking for reinforcements, leading to fresh interest in Pulisic.
However, it seems as though he isn’t keen on a move to Tyneside – or anywhere else for that matter.
Pulisic wants to stay at Chelsea
According to Sky Germany reporter Florian Plettenberg, Pulisic intends to remain at Stamford Bridge when the transfer window opens. The journalist believes that the American has no interest in a move elsewhere.
He adds that talks over an exit could happen if an enticing offer comes his way, but Plettenberg believes that is ‘unlikely’.
If Plettenberg is correct then Pulisic has changed his mind on life at Chelsea. He was keen for a move away during the summer, but the arrival of Graham Potter looks like it will convince him to stay.
Blow for Newcastle
It is disappointing to hear that Pulisic intends to stay at Chelsea beyond January. He would have been a great addition for Newcastle – especially as they look to boost their profile in America.
But the 24-year-old would have been most important on the pitch, where he could have joined what is an improving forward line. If he had arrived, Howe would have been able to choose a trio of forwards from Callum Wilson, Alexander Isak, Allan Saint-Maximin, Almiron and Pulisic. Those are some exciting options.
However, Newcastle may have to look elsewhere if they are to sign a winger in January. Plenty of other plays have been linked, including Brighton star Leandro Trossard.
The Magpies won’t sign anyone for the sake of it. Whoever does arrive will have been specifically scouted to fulfil a certain role in Howe’s team.
That’s why Pulisic was wanted at St James’ Park, but it looks like that is a move that won’t be happening in January.
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