Newcastle United are reportedly in advanced negotiations to seal the signing of Watford star Ismaila Sarr as the Magpies close in on their first winter acquisition.
According to Fichajes.net, Newcastle United are apparently in advanced talks to sign Senegalese winger Ismaila Sarr from Watford.
Newcastle’s new project under the Saudi-backed ownership is well underway as the restructure in management is taking place. The focus is on getting the right players in the transfer window to steer clear of relegation prospects. And it seems like Watford sensation Ismaila Sarr could potentially be the first of a flurry of January additions at St. James’ Park.
While they are taking the transfer market by storm and have been linked with numerous high-profile signings, the Tyneside-based outfit is more inclined to sign players having Premier League pedigree shown by their recent links with James Ward-Prowse and Conor Coady. Ismaila Sarr is the latest name to follow suit and certainly fits the profile.
The African attacker was signed from Ligue 1 outfit Stade Rennais back in the summer of 2019. And, Sarr has since proved to be a wise pickup for Watford. He was one of the few bright sparks in their 2019/20 relegation campaign. He thrived in the Championship, scoring 13 goals and providing 10 assists to help the team gain an instant promotion back to the top-flight.
In total, he has scored 23 goals and assisted a further 16 from 79 appearances across all competitions for the Hertfordshire outfit. The 23-year-old has been in a red-hot run of form this campaign, having already netted four goals from nine Premier League games. The Senegalese international is considered as one of the top up and coming talents in the Premier League. His consistent progress has garnered interest from several clubs, notably Liverpool, and now a cash-rich Newcastle are also vying for his signature.
Newcastle already have some decent attacking players in their ranks. Callum Wilson is a potent goalscorer when fit and available, while Allan Saint-Maximin is arguably one of the most exciting players in the Premier League. But apart from them, other players on their attacking roster provide little offensive threat. Ryan Fraser has struggled so far in, whilst Joelinton and Miguel Almiron lack end product in the final third.
Sarr is a quality winger and would be an excellent addition for Newcastle. His trailblazing pace is a handy weapon in transitions, while his direct dribbling approach near the touchline could offer the Magpies an added dimension. He is also versatile and can comfortably operate on either flank. His physicality and explosiveness would suit Newcastle’s counter-attacking brand of football perfectly.
Ismaila Sarr would walk straight into Newcastle’s starting XI. A front three of Wilson, Sarr and Saint-Maximin will form a very good attacking unit and a devastating spectacle on turnovers. He will cost a lot of money, but the Senegalese speedster’s talent makes him a worthwhile investment.
Sarr still has two years remaining on his deal at Vicarage Road. The Hornets will be unwilling to sell one of their key assets, especially when they are expected to be involved in a relegation dogfight. But the report mentions that Newcastle are in advanced talks to land the Senegalese star. Only time will tell whether the Toon would be able to sign the 23-year-old Senegalese international come this January.