Jeff Hendrick in action for Burnley (Getty Images)
According to Chronicle Live, Newcastle United have been offered the opportunity to sign Republic of Ireland international Jeff Hendrick.
The 28-year-old is currently a free agent, having left Premier League side Burnley last month. Hendrick was a regular during his four-year stint with Burnley and featured 139 times for them across all competitions.
He scored 10 goals and provided 7 assists during this time, proving his significance in Sean Dyche’s side. Prior to this, Hendrick played for Derby, amassing a total of 215 appearances for the Championship side.
The versatile midfielder is also a regular within his national side Republic of Ireland, and has two goals and five assists to his name from 54 matches.
Meanwhile, Premier League side Newcastle are in need of reinforcements in the midfield, with the future of academy graduate Matty Longstaff still remaining a question mark. The young midfielder had a breakthrough season this year under boss Steve Bruce, scoring two goals from nine league appearances.
However, with his current contract with the club set to expire at the end of this month, it would be safe for Newcastle to look for new options. Apart from Longstaff, the Magpies have Isaac Hayden, Matty’s brother Sean and the experienced Jonjo Shelvey in their midfield.
The 25-year-old Hayden, however, is a holding midfielder, leaving them with just two established central midfielders in their ranks. Having finished a disappointing 13th in the league rankings this season, it will hurt the side badly next season if they lack depth in their midfield. That said, Newcastle would be doing themselves a world of good by roping in a midfielder like Hendrick.
First of all, he would be available on a free transfer, meaning he can save them a lot of money and time. Secondly, he is an experienced campaigner, having already made 196 Championship and 122 Premier League appearances.
His versatility will also be an added benefit for any side, let alone Newcastle. Hence, the Magpies must make an approach to bring him to St. James Park this summer if they wish to better their displays next season.
Newcastle have a clear dearth of midfielders and Hendrick’s arrival will only add strength to their squad. Also, Longstaff’s uncertain future remains a major concern and an experienced player like Hendrick would fill the void if the former chooses to depart the club. Having proved himself at both the club and country level, Hendrick would thus be a valuable addition for the Magpies.
