A former Premier League player has commented on claims that Newcastle United could sign a world-class star who is available for free this summer.
The Magpies are expecting a busy transfer window, with sporting director Paul Mitchell tasked with bringing in players who can help the club compete in the Champions League.
Newcastle United are prepared to welcome several new players to the North East, with a mix of young and established players set to be targeted.
Mitchell may also look to exploit the Bosman rule this summer for more senior players, like he already has for a young prospect. Antonio Cordero will join Newcastle for free this summer, having put pen to paper over a move earlier in April.
With Newcastle already confirmed to be signing one player this summer, former West Ham and Chelsea player Scott Minto has commented on another deal that the Magpies could make this summer.
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Scott Minto addresses Kevin De Bruyne to Newcastle United claim
Kevin De Bruyne is one of the Premier League’s best-ever players. Several league titles, five Team of the Year nods and two PFA Player of the Year honours are just some of the many honours the Belgian has achieved throughout his career.
However, Manchester City fans were rocked when they heard that De Bruyne would be leaving the club after 10 years at the end of the season.
The 33-year-old is keen on a new challenge before calling time on his career, but as it stands there has been no confirmation on where he will play next.
On TalkSport this past Monday, journalist Alex Crook discussed potential next destinations for De Bruyne, with Minto, when the former asked whether a move to Newcastle could be one he would consider.
“They could, the only thing I would say about Newcastle is that Eddie Howe’s system philosophy is really high intensity and can Kevin De Bruyne deal with that?” Minto said.
“If he’s willing to do a pay-as-you-play, and by that I mean look, here’s 100 grand a week for you and then if you are playing, here’s another 100 grand a week, then perhaps that might sound exciting.
“What an exciting project Newcastle is, but I just feel the way he plays, Eddie Howe wants his Newcastle side to be right at it – high intensity. I’m not sure Kevin De Bruyne and his body could deal with that.”
De Bruyne, who joined Man City for £54.5m in 2015, has been linked with a move to the MLS. It is believed that the Chicago Fire are the leading candidate for him.
Kevin De Bruyne’s record vs Newcastle United
Despite Minto’s comments, there is no doubt that Newcastle’s stock would rise if De Bruyne were to join the Magpies this summer. Shirt sales would go through the roof.
De Bruyne would cost a lot of money in wages, and he may not want to accept a pay-as-you-play contract, but he would make Newcastle’s European campaign a lot more promising.
| Kevin De Bruyne vs Newcastle United | |
| Games | 14 |
| Wins | 10 |
| Draws | 3 |
| Losses | 1 |
| Goals | 4 |
| Assists | 8 |
Newcastle fans may be pleased to see De Bruyne leave the Premier League if a move away does come to fruition, the midfielder has been a massive thorn in the club’s side over the last 10 years.
De Bruyne missed last season’s game against Newcastle at the Etihad, but made up for it with a goal and assist in his first game back from injury to help Man City to a 3-2 win at St James’ Park.
If he does leave England, the Premier League will undoubtedly lose one of the all-time greats.
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