Newcastle transfer news: Magpies scouts watch Feyenoord’s Orkun Kokcu

Add as preferred source on Google

Newcastle United are looking to sign a midfielder for next season, and have been scouting Feyenoord star Orkun Kokcu.

Eddie Howe will be looking for attacking and defensive reinforcements over the summer, with Newcastle heavily linked with plenty of midfielders.

The Magpies appear to be in the market for someone who can provide something a little bit different in the middle of the park. That is why James Maddison continues to be talked about as a possible signing.

However, Newcastle do have other options, and it looks like a player from the Eredivisie has caught Toon scouts’ attention.

Newcastle scout Orkun Kokcu

According to De Telegraaf, Newcastle scouts have watched Kokcu play for Feyenoord regularly. They have been joined by officials from Aston Villa and Crystal Palace, who are also interested in the 22-year-old.

The Premier League trio will no doubt have been impressed with Kokcu, who is enjoying a brilliant season.

He is the captain of Arne Slot’s side, who are top of the Eredivisie after 27 games. Kokcu could be lifting the title at the end of the season, and his goals have played a massive part. The Turkey international has scored eight times in the league, boasting 12 in all competitions. That is the same amount as Newcastle top scorer Miguel Almiron.

Kokcu has incredible technique, and that is why he has been compared to one of the greatest midfielders of the 21st century.

He’s been compared to Luka Modric

Former Liverpool midfielder Mohamed Sissoko has spoke very highly of Kokcu, and even likened him to Real Madrid and Croatia superstar Luka Modric.

He was interviewed by Tutto Juve last year, and spoke about Kokcu’s ability. He was asked to compare him to someone, to which he replied: “Modric.”

“For me he has the same quality of play. He has the potential to reach his level,” he said.

That is incredibly high praise, as Modric is still an elite player even at the age of 37. He has had a sensational career and is widely regarded as one of the best midfielders in recent memory.

That is exciting for Toon fans, with Newcastle now scouting the next Modric. They will be desperate not to miss out like they did with the Croatian, after Mike Ashley pulled the plug on bringing him to St James’ Park.

Newcastle will not want to make the same mistake twice, and it will be interesting to see if these scouting trips result in a formal approach from the Magpies.