Newcastle poised for perfect Joelinton upgrade with £20m signing backed by impressive stats
Newcastle United is reportedly eyeing AZ Alkmaar midfielder Kees Smit as a potential upgrade for Joelinton. The Brazilian’s form has declined, prompting manager Eddie Howe to consider changes during the upcoming January transfer window.
Joelinton’s Struggles at Newcastle
The Magpies faced a disappointing start to the Premier League season. After their recent 3-1 defeat against Brentford, Newcastle finds itself precariously above the relegation zone, leading by only two points.
Joelinton’s performance has been under scrutiny. He exited the match early due to injury but has since regained fitness. Nevertheless, his spot in the starting lineup is now in jeopardy.
Kees Smit: A Potential Replacement
Newcastle’s scouting efforts have spotlighted 19-year-old Kees Smit, a rising star linked with major clubs like Real Madrid and Bayern Munich. Reports suggest that his transfer fee could be around £20 million, making him an attractive option for Newcastle.
Premier League rival Crystal Palace is also showing interest in Smit, intensifying competition for his signature.
Statistics Comparison
A comparison between Joelinton and Smit reveals a notable disparity in their playing styles. Over the past year, Smit has excelled in several metrics:
| Metric | Joelinton | Kees Smit |
|---|---|---|
| Progressive Passes | 4.5 | 5.7 |
| Progressive Carries | 1.3 | 2.0 |
| Successful Take-ons | 0.46 | 1.14 |
| Pass Completion | 82.4% | 85% |
| Shot-Creating Actions | 2.33 | 4.12 |
| Total Shots | 1.57 | 1.75 |
Conclusion
Newcastle’s potential acquisition of Kees Smit represents a strategic move to enhance their midfield creativity. While Joelinton offers physical presence, Smit’s technical prowess may provide a vital boost for the team as they aim to improve their standings in the Premier League.
