Newcastle United have now opened talks to sign Feyenoord star Anis Hadj Moussa, and they hold a major advantage in the race for his signature.
After missing out on Victor Munoz, who ultimately ended up signing for Liverpool, the Magpies are still searching for an Anthony Gordon replacement, and Moussa is capable of playing on both wings.
That said, the Algerian is primarily a right-winger, featuring in that area on two occasions for his national side at the World Cup, where his side are set to take on Switzerland in their round of 32 tie.
Gordon, on the other hand, hasn’t exactly set the world alight for England, with Gary Neville suggesting Morgan Rogers should replace him on the left, saying: “I do not want to pile in on Anthony Gordon because he is a really good player and, to be fair, he has had two difficult games. But I did not think that Marcus Rashford should have come on. I actually thought it should be Morgan Rogers.
“We are talking about this Rogers or Jude Bellingham debate about who plays there. Well, Bellingham’s going to play number 10. I actually like the idea of Rogers coming off that left-hand side. I think he’s just got a little bit more.”
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Football FanCast’s Verdict |
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Credibility |
Although Gordon’s World Cup is yet to truly take off, he impressed at club level for Newcastle last season, registering 17 goals and five assists in 46 matches across all competitions. Consequently, Newcastle will need to improve their wide options this summer. |
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Finances |
The Magpies should have ample funds to sign a replacement, having raised £69m from selling the England international. Feyenoord are only demanding €35m (£30m) for Moussa, making him an affordable option. |
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Insight |
Scout Jacek Kulig has lauded the Eredivisie star as “fantastic”, and he was a regular source of goals and assists for the Dutch side last season, amassing 21 goal involvements in 40 matches across all competitions. |
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Impact |
Given that the Algeria international is capable of playing on both flanks, he could also challenge for Anthony Elanga’s spot on the right. The Sweden star was less than impressive in his debut campaign at St. James’ Park, failing to score in 32 Premier League matches. |
Newcastle now in talks to sign Anis Hadj Moussa
According to a report from Sky Sports, Newcastle’s talks to sign Moussa are now advancing, and he is keen on a move to the Premier League, which gives them a major advantage over rival suitors Al-Qadsiah and Al-Ahli.
Feyenoord are holding out for £30m, so a deal wouldn’t break the bank, but Aston Villa are also in discussions, which could pose a problem, with Unai Emery’s side qualifying for next season’s Champions League.
Anthony Elanga could be worried by potential signing of Anis Hadj Moussa
Not only will Newcastle have to replace Gordon, but they may be starting to doubt Elanga too, with the Sweden international failing to get on the scoresheet, and registering just one assist in the Premier League last season.
The Feyenoord winger, on the other hand, was a constant threat in the Eredivisie, creating 16 big chances, which was seven more than any other member of the squad, while also scoring 11 goals.
Former manager Robin van Persie has praised the African for the influence he has on his teammates too, saying: “He’s on his way to becoming the best version of himself. This period could be hugely important for his growth, and he’s already showing signs of being a true leader on and off the pitch.”
As such, Moussa could now be ready to test himself in the Premier League.
He’s just like Gordon: Newcastle have already signed their own Victor Munoz
Newcastle pulled off this exciting signing last summer.
