Newcastle United have reportedly reignited their interest in French central midfielder Clement Grenier. The Magpies had previously bid for the player in January 2014 but it was rejected by Lyon. Post his injury-laden years, Grenier joined French club Guingamp earlier in January this year. The 27-year-old has impressed in the Ligue 1 since then, scoring 5 goals and providing 4 assists in 15 appearances.
The midfielder has a price tag of around €3million and Newcastle must sign the player this summer. Rafa Benitez has done a terrific job in keeping the Magpies up. The Spaniard would naturally want quality incomings this summer to further enhance the squad. To that end, Grenier’s presence will help the team in various facets of the game.
Let us scout the player and conclude as to why Newcastle would need his services from the next season.
Technique-wise, Grenier is faultless. He is a gifted midfielder with an ability to play in any of the central positions. His propensity to spread balls to extend the build-up and stretch the opposing defence is right up there.
The Frenchman also has an eye for key passes, having averaged 2.3 per game in the Ligue 1 last season. He is tall and quite a threat from set-pieces. The 27-year-old’s ability to score free-kicks cannot be forgotten. His tally of 5 goals and 4 assists in 15 appearances convey a lot about his potential to be lethal in front of goal when required.
Newcastle struggled for goals and lacked creativity last season. Hence, they must shell out the money to sign a player like Grenier who can provide assists and score crucial goals from the midfield position. The Frenchman is strong at tackling and breaking up play as well. All this clearly suggests that he can do the obligatory defensive work when required.
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Newcastle must improve their squad this summer to regularly compete in the Premier League. And Grenier would certainly add an extra dimension to their squad. The Frenchman can perform various roles and be effective at all times. Hence, the Magpies must definitely make a move for him.\
