Newcastle United are looking to sign Jarrod Bowen, but also have some alternatives lined up.
It has been reported that West Ham forward Bowen is Newcastle’s top winger target right now, as Eddie Howe goes in search of a game-changing arrival that can compliment Alexander Isak and Anthony Gordon in attack.
The 27-year-old would certainly be welcome at St James’ Park, although Newcastle fans are concerned that Bowen will cost too much money. That is a view I share, as the England international has a contract at the London Stadium until 2030.
While Newcastle officials believe they can tempt Bowen to Tyneside, it is incredibly difficult to envision the Magpies agreeing a deal with West Ham.
Newcastle consider Leicester City attacker
Bowen is a very ambitious target, which is why Newcastle have alternatives on their radar. Noni Madueke has been linked with the Magpies, while Crysencio Summerville is also one to watch for Newcastle.
Now another name has cropped up, and it is someone who Harvey Barnes is familiar with.
According to Give Me Sport, Newcastle are considering Leicester City attacker Kasey McAteer.
The 22-year-old is a former teammate of Toon winger Harvey Barnes, who left the Foxes to sign for Newcastle last summer.
Interestingly, McAteer actually made his Leicester City debut against Newcastle. It came in December 2021, with the youngster coming on as a substitute in the 88th minute during a 4-0 win for a Foxes team that also included Barnes.
That was one of Eddie Howe’s first games as manager – a lot has changed since then.
Kasey McAteer is not at the level Newcastle need
So much has changed that a player like McAteer is a strange target.
Newcastle United competed in the Champions League last season, and will be desperate to get back to that grand stage. They will certainly give it a good go this season, as they only have to focus on their domestic duties.
A lack of European fixtures should allow Newcastle to go full throttle in the Premier League, while Howe is hoping to strengthen his side in the transfer market.
But would signing McAteer to play on the right wing be a huge step in the right direction? He did well for Leicester last season as they won promotion, but he was hardly their most crucial player.
While Enzo Maresca described him as ‘important‘ last year, McAteer only managed 23 Championship appearances, scoring six goals and providing zero assists.
He certainly has the potential to grow as a player, and Howe is the perfect manager at helping players realise that potential. However, Newcastle are looking for a right winger who can help take the club to the next level, and McAteer does not look like someone who is capable of that.
The fact that he is in the final year of his Leicester contract could mean Newcastle are able to grab a bargain, but a deal for McAteer would only be acceptable if he arrived alongside another right winger – someone who is much more high profile.
In truth, it would be a shock if Newcastle do anything more than just consider McAteer.
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