He heads straight to Newcastle United’s Premier League rival Chelsea and is reportedly racing to sign Eddie Howe’s Champions League captain.
Hau wants an “attack” against Arsenal
Newcastle endured a slow start to its Premier League campaign, but Sunday’s meeting with Arsenal is a great opportunity for the Magpies to really move forward. Hau’s side had the gunner’s number in the past, but there’s no doubt that St. James’ park will sway after the manager called out “aggressiveness” from his players.
“If you’re not in the sweet spot of aggression and competitiveness, you won’t play the same way. I think there are players who really cater to that type of game.
“Of course there’s a balance depending on the style of the game. I think you can navigate the way you get through the game and use all your skills in a psychological framework to win.”
With Anthony Gordon competing, it will be interesting to see whether Nick Ultemaid is forced to come off the bench again, or whether he will have the first opportunity to be moved along with the former Everton winger.
Speaking before towering, Howe told reporters recently. “We don’t play with 10 people, so I consider him nine. But there are nine people who play differently than the others we had. We can’t compare Nick to Calm Wilson.
“It’s about leveraging his strengths and teammates to understand how Nick plays. He showed his creative talent and link play with Bradford – which really impressed him.”
Of course, it’s a trip to the transfer market that will help you make the most of Newcastle’s Big Money signature. And it was possible to see the magpie swooped before Chelsea and signed the Champions League captain.
Newcastle will take part in the Manuel Rocatelli race
As reported by catch-offside, Newcastle now joined the race to sign Juventus’ Manuel Rocatelli along with Premier League rival Chelsea. The Italian giant is naturally reluctant to sell the captain, but accepts that the 40 million euro (£35 million) regional offer is likely to have few options for next year.
Newcastle’s starting midfield is one of the most powerful things the Premier League has to offer, but more quality may be a minor concern for the people of St. James Park. Adding Locatelli solves that problem.
League statistics 24/25 | Manuel Rocatelli | Bruno Guimarès |
|---|---|---|
Min | 2,822 | 3,271 |
Progressive Pass | 294 | 271 |
Progressive Carry | 33 | 64 |
Ball recovery | 141 | 188 |
Last year, analyst Ben Matinson called him the “intelligent passerby,” and it’s clear that we’ll see how Locatelli thrives alongside Guimarè. The two midfield controllers have managed to completely unlock the new approach for Howe, who struggles to break down low blocks in their current campaign.
Last season, a 294 progressive pass passed to his name makes Locatelli a great addition to Newcastle’s midfield. However, it remains to be seen whether the Magpie can seduce the Captain of Juventus from Turin.
