Newcastle United have reportedly emerged as the latest club to be linked with a move for wantaway Tottenham defender Joe Rodon.
According to Daily Mail, Newcastle United have emerged as a potential destination for Joe Rodon. The Tottenham Hotspur starlet has been identified as one of many defensive targets for new coach Eddie Howe, as he looks to shore up his options in the upcoming January transfer window, in an attempt to avoid relegation.
Rodon also happens to be among the players expected to leave Tottenham next month, ahead of a potential defensive overhaul by Antonio Conte. The 24-year-old is clearly not wanted by the Italian tactician, who has handed him only one opportunity since taking over from Nuno Espirito Santo last month.
The single appearance came in the defeat to NS Mura in the UEFA Conference League, Conte’s only defeat, during his short spell at Spurs so far. It was also one of only five competitive appearances for Rodon this season, which is quite surprising given that the club had to part ways with Toby Alderweireld in the summer while marquee signing Cristian Romero has struggled with injuries.
Rodon’s misery at Tottenham, though, could soon come to an end, with Newcastle United prepared to offer him an opportunity to revive his career in January. It appears he is among the defensive options that are highly rated by Howe, who is keen on finding a few reliable defensive options that can help the team stave off relegation during the second half of the campaign.
The Welshman fits the bill well, too, due to his technical prowess and versatility. He may not boast the physical strength of most defenders, but the 24-year-old certainly makes up for it with his aggression and ability to play the ball out from the back. It could add another dimension to the Newcastle United backline that has leaked in 30 goals this term.
However, the Magpies are set to face stiff competition from Brighton & Hove Albion in the pursuit of Rodon, potentially giving the Tottenham defender a difficult choice. On the one hand, Newcastle can offer a lucrative salary and the opportunity to become a protagonist in the club’s project of becoming a European superpower.
Brighton, though, have a much better record of nurturing talents and can help the Tottenham defender rejuvenate himself after a disappointing spell at the Tottenham Hotspur Stadium. Hence, it will be interesting to see what the future holds for the 24-year-old in the upcoming January transfer window.