Abderazak Hamdallah is one of the most prolific strikers outside Europe (Getty Images)
As per Mercato (h/t Chronicle Live), Newcastle United are interested in signing Al-Nassr striker Abderazak Hamdallah in the summer.
Hamdallah, 29, came through the ranks of Olympique Safi’s youth system in Morocco and played for several clubs, including Aalesund in Norway, Guangzhou R and F in China. After playing in Qatar for a few years, he moved to Saudi Arabia with Al-Nassr in August 2018.
Though he is not a known player to many, Hamdallah is one of the most prolific strikers outside Europe. He scored 57 goals in the 2019 calendar year, surpassing the likes of Robert Lewandowski and Lionel Messi. He has been at his best for a long time and thus, Newcastle should make a move for him this summer.
The Magpies, meanwhile, have endured a disappointing campaign so far. Despite being in the top half of the league table until Christmas, they have stooped low of late. Steve Bruce’s men have also been dumped out of the EFL Cup.
Though they have made progress in the FA Cup, which is their only hope to lift a title this term, they are currently in 13th position in the league table. They have been inconsistent throughout the campaign in every department.
One of the major reasons for their downfall is the lack of consistency in front of goal. Though the manager had the opportunity to reinforce the squad in January, he opted to bring in just three players on loan. And that has not helped the Magpies so far.
One area which the manager should focus on strengthening is the centre-forward position. The Magpies have managed to score just 25 goals so far, which is the lowest in the league this term. Joelinton, Andy Carroll, Yoshinori Muto and Dwight Gayle are the strikers available at the manager’s disposal.
Summer signing Joelinton has scored just once in the league while the rest of the strikers haven’t opened their account yet. And Carroll has entered the final month of his contract with the magpies. His departure could leave Newcastle with limited options up front.
In that regard, signing Hamdallah would be a brilliant move by the club. The Moroccan has been in sensational form in the past few years and has also helped his side lift several trophies in the past two seasons.
He has scored 15 or more goals in the past seven seasons and could be a crucial player for the Magpies. He has also racked up 18 goals in 19 league games this term with Al-Nassr.
Hamdallah has been one of the most reliable strikers for whichever team he has played so far. In 200 career appearances, he has already scored a whopping 175 goals and Newcastle could do better with his presence. He is 29 and has a few more years left to play at a high level. Thus, the Magpies should enjoy his best by luring him to St. James’ Park this summer.
