Ahead of next season’s return to the Champions League, it’s common knowledge that we’re in desperate need for squad depth.
On top of a new right-sided centre back, ball-playing goalkeeper and an extra striker to support Callum Wilson, a new right winger is high on the priority list.
With Bryan Mbeumo’s wages proving to be a huge stumbling block, attentions have seemingly turned back to Nottingham Forest’s Anthony Elanga
But according to a new report, another Premier League winger looks to be on our radar, and again it’s one we’ve shown a keen interest in before…
According to [the i’s](https://inews.co.uk/sport/football/newcastle-system-60m-transfer-wingers-list-3736896?ito=link_share_article-top) Mark Douglas, Newcastle United have been alerted by the availability of Chelsea winger Noni Madueke.
Douglas has reiterated that Elanga is still highly-regarded and towards the top of Eddie Howe’s list of right winger targets, with widespread reports revealing that we are back in discussions with Nottingham Forest over a deal.
But with Chelsea needing to make room for yet more new signings of their own, Madueke could be sacrificed and has re-emerged as a potential target.
A move for the 23-year-old may be revisited, with Douglas revealing that he was ‘part of recruitment discussions last summer’. However, a move for the England international left some members of our recruitment team split, meaning he may only be pursued should we struggle to strike a deal for Elanga.
There’s no denying that Madueke can be superb on his day, but in terms of consistency, our recruitment team may have a point over if he’s the right choice at this moment in time.
Excluding a hat trick in gameweek two of last season, the former PSV star only notched four goals and four assists in the 30 league games following that strong performance against Wolves.
Enzo Maresca has also previously dropped Madueke for ‘technical reasons’ amidst some poor training performances last season, bringing his attitude and work rate into question.
When compared to Elanga, Madueke could very well be the more affordable option, an especially attractive option owing to his status as an England international, but is he that winger able to take us to the next level on that side of the pitch? I’m not so sure.