Newcastle United are reportedly considering a move for Red Bull Salzburg centre-forward Noah Okafor, as Eddie Howe eyes attacking reinforcements.
A recent report from TEAMtalk has revealed Newcastle United’s interest in Noah Okafor. The Premier League outfit are currently in the market for at least two new attackers, with the Red Bull Salzburg youngster emerging as one of the potential candidates. Okafor is believed to be available in January as well, with the player keen on a potential move to England.
A product of the FC Basel youth academy, Okafor joined Salzburg in January 2020. He was brought in as a direct replacement for Erling Haaland, who moved to Borussia Dortmund in the same window. It was quite the major investment on Salzburg’s part as they shelled out €11 million for the striker.
Unfortunately, Okafor’s career in Austria has been marred by injuries so far. The Swiss attacker has had to deal with six different spells on the sidelines, including the most recent hamstring issue that kept him out for two weeks in late 2021. Overall, the 21-year-old has managed 67 competitive appearances for the club, scoring 21 goals.
In many ways, the Swiss international’s performances at Salzburg have been overshadowed by the presence of players like Benjamin Sesko and Karim Adeyemi, who remains a top target for clubs like Liverpool and Barcelona.
Okafor’s lack of prominence at Salzburg has not deterred Newcastle United, though, with the club closely monitoring his progress in the Austrian Bundesliga. It is no secret that the Magpies are in the market for a new striker in January following Callum Wilson’s absence through a calf injury that should keep him on the sidelines for a considerable period.
In an attempt to replace the former Bournemouth forward, Newcastle United have been linked with a move for Divock Origi, among many other Premier League outcasts. But in Noah Okafor, manager Eddie Howe could land himself a major talent, who can not only help the club push for survival but also rebuild in the Championship, should they get relegated.
At the age of just 21, the former FC Basel sensation offers bags of potential, making him a smart long-term investment for the Magpies. But it remains to be seen whether Salzburg sanction a sale in January. Although the player remains keen on securing an exit, the Austrian giants might be forced to keep hold of the striker beyond next summer, in light of the uncertain futures of both Sesko and Adeyemi.
