Newcastle United may have signed Anthony Elanga this summer, but that is the only highlight for Eddie Howe thus far.
Moves for no.1 target Joao Pedro and striking sensation Hugo Ekitike failed in recent weeks while Howe was also keen on signing Bryan Mbeumo, but it appears as though Manchester United have snatched him away from the Magpies.
The Cameroon international would have been an excellent versatile option for Howe next season, as he can play across the front three.
As such, he will have to explore other options ahead of the new season.
Newcastle’s forward search
Benjamin Sesko and Julian Alvarez have both been linked with moves to Newcastle in recent days. Either one would make for a magnificent signing, no doubt about that.
With everything, the transfer fees could be the biggest problem regarding either deal. This could mean Howe might have to turn elsewhere to sign another forward.
According to Africa Foot, Newcastle have entered the race to sign Evann Guessand, now set to rival Tottenham Hotspur for his signature.
It’s claimed that the Toon have recently opened talks with the player’s entourage as they now explore whether to formalise their interest in the player.
He would only cost a reported £22m, which could enable Howe to move for other targets while simultaneously improving his attacking options.
Guessand, given his positional flexibility, could even be Howe’s own answer to Mbeumo should he sign for the Toon this summer.
Why Newcastle must sign Evann Guessand
While the signing of Elanga is a promising one, giving Howe some depth on the flanks, it is evident another centre-forward is required.
Callum Wilson left the club upon the expiration of his contract, leaving just Alexander Isak and William Osula as the only recognised strikers at the club.
Last season for Brentford, Mbeumo scored 20 goals and grabbed nine assists. He spent the season operating either as a main striker or on the right flank, showcasing his versatility.
Guessand may not have matched this tally of 29 goal contributions, but he still scored 13 goals and recorded ten assists in all competitions for Nice.
|
Guessand’s career statistics for Nice |
|||
|---|---|---|---|
|
Season |
Games |
Goals |
Assists |
|
24/25 |
42 |
13 |
9 |
|
23/24 |
38 |
7 |
2 |
|
21/22 |
25 |
1 |
3 |
|
20/21 |
3 |
0 |
0 |
|
19/20 |
1 |
0 |
0 |
|
Via Transfermarkt |
|||
Like the Brentford star, the Ivorian played either as a striker or on either wing for the French club, and this sort of flexibility could give Howe a major boost.
Guessand’s performances in Europe last season will offer Howe more positives. Indeed, the attacker shone when compared to his peers in the Europa League.
According to FBref, not only did Guessand rank in the top 12% for successful take-ons per 90 (2.67), but he also ranked in the top 5% for touches in the opposition penalty area (7.21) per 90. That’s certainly an Mbeumo-esque set of traits.
He also ranked in the top 12% for aerials won and in the top 16% for tackles per 90, highlighting that he is solid off the ball and is always looking to win it back for his team. While Mbeumo may not be prolific in the air, his work-rate is also exemplary.
U23 scout Antonio Mango hailed the 24-year-old as “electric” earlier this season, and considering he could be available for £22m, it makes perfect sense for Howe to move ahead with a move.
Newcastle might have missed out on Mbuemo, but in Guessand, they could have the next best thing.
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