Jamal Lewis (Getty Images)
According to Daily Mail, Newcastle United are keen on signing Norwich City youngster Jamal Lewis ahead of the new campaign.
The report suggests that Lewis is among several of the Magpies’ targets ahead of next season but with the takeover failing, Steve Bruce has to do with a limited budget. However, with Norwich relegated, they should manage to sign the Northern Ireland international.
Born in England, the Northern Ireland international came through the ranks of Norwich City’s youth system. After impressing with the club’s youth squads, Lewis was handed his debut in the 2017/18 campaign and he went on to make 22 league appearances in his first full season with the senior set-up.
He then played a crucial role in helping the Canaries get promoted to the top-flight at the end of the 2018/19 campaign and quickly caught the attention of several top teams with his impressive debut season in the Premier League. He was also the subject of interest from Liverpool but a move didn’t materialize.
Despite the Canaries performing below par, the 22-year-old showed immense potential in the top-flight and was at his best last season.
The Magpies’ defence hasn’t been up to the mark in recent years. Last season, they conceded 58 goals in 38 league games, which is poor according to their standards. And it is necessary for the manager to bring in reinforcements to the backline.
One area where Bruce should focus on strengthening is the left-back position. Matt Ritchie is the only recognized player available in that position. But he operated in a slightly higher position for the majority of the 2019/20 campaign.
Danny Rose and Jetro Willems have also returned to their respective teams after their loan spells came to an end. This has left Newcastle with limited options on the left side of the defence. Thus, they should consider signing a left-back this summer.
In that regard, Lewis would be a fantastic addition to the squad. He is capable of operating in any position on the left side of the pitch. The Northern Irishman has already made 100 appearances for the Canaries and has got some experience under his belt which could be helpful if a move happens.
He would definitely bring healthy competition for Ritchie in that position and would also add depth to Bruce’s squad. Moreover, Lewis is just 22 and a huge future lies ahead of him. And if he is able to develop himself under the guidance of someone like Bruce, he could go on to be a useful player in the future.
With limited options at the back, it is clear that the Magpies are in dire need of left-backs. And Lewis, who has shown immense potential, could provide them with some much-needed quality in the long run. Thus, Newcastle should manage to lure the youngster to St. James’ Park this summer.
