Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing a January swoop for Inter Milan target man Edin Dzeko.
According to The Sun, Newcastle United are considering a shock move for Inter Milan veteran Edin Dzeko, as Eddie Howe weighs his striking options with relegation looming large at St. James’ Park. Dzeko only joined the reigning Serie A champions this summer, but it was on a short-term two-year deal until June 2023, and with Magpies newfound wealth, the Milan giants could cash in on their attacker to make a quick buck.
The 35-year-old has been a prolific target man throughout his career, bagging a massive total of 287 goals while providing 150 assists in 617 appearances across his spells with Wolfsburg, Manchester City, AS Roma and now defying the odds to produce the goods in front of goal for Inter Milan.
The Bosnian international swapped Roma for rivals Inter during the summer transfer window. The move had come under criticism from the Italian media while others had reservations about Dzeko’s capability to replace Romelu Lukaku, who moved to Chelsea in a blockbuster €115 million transfer.
Nonetheless, the Bosnian has since proved his doubters wrong by producing eight goals and three assists in the first 17 games of the campaign, becoming a key part of Simone Inzaghi’s sides’ general attacking play with the Nerazzurri at the top of Serie A at the time of writing.
Moreover, the veteran also delivered at the European stage and was the driving force in their qualification to Champions League Last 16, contributing with three goals and an assist. The Nerazzurri would be unlikely to sell their talisman halfway through the season, especially when they are in the hunt for back-to-back Scudetto wins, but Newcastle’s financial strength could prove decisive.
Having conceded a whopping 41 goals from 18 games, defensive reinforcements are a clear priority for Eddie Howe’s side. But their attack is not any better either. Callum Wilson is the only source of goals for the Toon. Allan Saint-Maximin and Joelinton are not exactly goalscoring forwards, while Dwight Gayle does not seem up to the task and could leave on loan next month.
Dzeko would be a sensational signing if the Magpies can get the deal over the line. Although the ex-Manchester City striker is entering the twilight years of his career, he could be a great short-term fix. He would not only share the workload with Wilson, but Dzeko’s aerial prowess, hold-up play and physicality could work wonders in a front-two alongside Wilson, who majorly thrives on running in behind the defences and predatory instincts.
Newcastle have the financial means to get any player they want. Attracting them to Tyneside when their Premier League status is in jeopardy, though, is a major obstacle. It now remains to be seen whether the Magpies’ can land the 35-year-old Bosnian or turn to other alternatives.
