Newcastle United sporting director Paul Mitchell has some making-up to do.
After replacing Dan Ashworth at the start of the summer transfer window, the 43-year-old arrived at St. James’ Park tipped to revolutionise the Magpies’ transfer strategy.
Four failed bids to sign Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi; Eddie Howe’s top target, left the former Monaco chief slightly red-faced and has promoted a falling out with the manager behind the scenes.
Paul Mitchell working on Callum Wilson replacement
Mitchell, now on thin ice, must now use the mid-season window to make amends and remind Newcastle’s decision-makers why they worked so tirelessly to bring him in.
And although a defender remains top of Howe’s wishlist, with the side lacking firepower up top, a new striker is now less of a luxury and more of a necessity.
Callum Wilson is well into his thirties and appears to be struggling with injuries. The 32-year-old has less than 10 months left on his deal and has yet to play this season. Expected to leave St. James’ Park as a free agent at the end of the campaign, the former Bournemouth forward will need replacing.
Jonathan David top of list
And according to a report from TBR Football, Mitchell has identified Lille’s Jonathan David as the ideal candidate.
The 24-year-old Canada international netted 26 goals in all competitions last season and has emerged as a possible target for many of the Premier League’s biggest sides, including Chelsea and Arsenal.
Set to leave France as a free agent at the end of the season, David seems destined for England’s top-flight and Newcastle are looking to capitalise on the opportunity with Mitchell already making a formal enquiry over the potential deal’s structure.
Although the Magpies wouldn’t need to pay Lille a transfer fee, they will still be expected to splash the cash with an important contract offer and agent fees.
Irrespective of the money involved, David’s proposed capture would certainly be seen as an upgrade on Howe’s current options.
Alexander Isak is viewed as one of Europe’s hottest strikers, but the Swede can’t lead the Magpies’ line alone so having Lille’s number nine as a backup would see Newcastle improve their overall quality in depth.