Why Newcastle must contemplate a deal for £30m-rated Andros Townsend

Newcastle United are interested in Andros Townsend and are looking to re-sign him this summer, having done so back in 2016. It is reported that the Magpies have offered £20m for the player but the Palace hierarchy are demanding a higher fee. In fact, the notion is that the Eagles have slapped a fee of £30m for the winger. It remains to be seen whether Newcastle are willing to increase their initial bid amount by £10m to get their target.

If we talk about the possible impacts Townsend can have at Newcastle, there are many. The 26-year-old played half a season with the Magpies during the 2015/16 campaign when they got relegated. The winger then chose to stay in the Premier League, signing for Crystal Palace. It goes without saying that his decision would have left a sour taste among many supporters in the Newcastle camp.

However, if Newcastle are able to procure the required money, they should go ahead and sign the player. He would add a different dimension to their squad and at the age of 26, he is in his prime.

Let us scout the player and conclude as to why the Magpies should contemplate swooping in.

Scouting Andros Townsend

The winger has the ability to perform various roles in the team. He can play on either side of the wing while his dribbling skills are absolutely top-notch. The 26-year-old also has an eye for providing crucial key passes towards the goal.

Although he is well-known for his attacking traits, Townsend can also track back and be a useful defender when required. In fact, he can put in a mean tackle to break up the opposition build-up and start counter-attacks.

Read More: This £16m star is the man to solve Newcastle’s goal-scoring woes next season

Verdict

If we analyse the Newcastle squad, they are short on wingers who can genuinely put crosses into the box regularly. Matt Ritchie is the only one who can perform that role for the time being. They had Kenedy but he was on loan from Chelsea. Therefore, having a player like Townsend would massively help Benitez in setting up his team. Given his defensive awareness, the manager can also play him as a wing-back if needed.