Why Florentino Luis would be a good addition for Newcastle United
According to Daily Mail, Newcastle United have registered an interest in highly-rated Benfica midfielder Florentino Luis.
The 20-year-old enjoyed a breakthrough campaign last season with the defending Portuguese champions, making 14 appearances for the senior side. However, he has not been able to have the same impact this season, partly owing to injuries.
A defensive midfielder by trade, Luis has made just seven appearances for Benfica in the league this season. Despite his few starts, Luis has helped the club to five clean sheets, giving a clear idea of his defensive abilities. A Benfica youth academy product, Luis has so far played 29 times for the Portuguese side across all competitions and has a goal and assist to his name.
Luis, who currently plays for Portugal’s U-20 side, is also a European champion with their U-19 (2018) and U-17 squads (2016). Despite his performances improving with time, Benfica are now ready to sell the player in the summer, the report claims.
Luis an excellent future signing for Newcastle
Newcastle, on the other hand, need to improve a number of areas in their squad following their dismal show in the league this season. Steve Bruce’s side are currently 13th in the league standings, having managed to win just eight wins out of their 29 matches so far.
The Magpies have as many as three defensive midfielders in their midst, but that hasn’t stopped them from conceding 41 goals.
Bruce has mostly preferred 25-year-old Isaac Hayden in the defensive midfield role this season but the Englishman hasn’t made much of an impact, as it is evident from their displays this season. The Magpies also face a major concern regarding the future of upcoming talent Matty Longstaff, whose contract with the club is set to expire at the end of this month.
Apart from Hayden and Longstaff, Newcastle also have Jack Colback in the side. However, the veteran midfielder has not made a single appearance this term.
Hence, Newcastle could do with an upcoming talent like Luis, who has shown signs of his immense potential with Benfica. He would add depth in the defensive midfield department and with experience, prove to be an fine future signing for the club.
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Verdict
Newcastle have struggled this season. With Longstaff’s contract expiring and Colback not part of plans, they are in urgent need of reinforcements in defensive midfield. Hence, Luis’ arrival would only make them stronger. Having broken through at ranks at Benfica already, he can prove to be an excellent future investment for Newcastle.
