Newcastle United Are Eager To Sign This Talented Defender: Should Howe Snap Him Up? | OneFootball

In a recent report, The Daily Mail stated that Newcastle United are eager to sign Red Bull Salzburg defender Oumar Solet this summer. It is understood that the Magpies have identified the French talent as a target for this ongoing transfer window.

Solet’s Impressive Form In European Football Last Season

Solet had a solid campaign at the Austrian club recently as he managed to put in a run of dominant performances on the defensive end of the field. The 23-year-old scored one goal and earned one assist in 33 matches for RB Salzburg last season in multiple competitions.

The Melun-born sensation caught the eye with his performances in Europe where he averaged 1.3 tackles, 0.8 interceptions and 3.3 clearances per 90 minutes in the UEFA Champions League. He was even excellent when distributing the ball from the back after making 86.4% of his attempted passes in European football (stats via whoscored).

Solet is under contract at RB Salzburg until the summer of 2025. Thus, the Magpies will have to make a convincing offer if they want to recruit him in this off-season.

COPENHAGEN, DENMARK – AUGUST 25: Oumar Solet of FC Red Bull Salzburg controls the ball during the UEFA Champions League Play-Offs Leg Two match between Brondby IF and FC Red Bull Salzburg at on August 25, 2021 in Copenhagen, Denmark. (Photo by Martin Rose/Getty Images)

Should Newcastle United Boss Eddie Howe Snap Solet Up This Summer?

Solet loves a tackle and can time his challenges well to secure the ball back for his team inside his half. He usually clears the danger when the opposition are on the front foot and can use his strong 1.92m frame to win his fair share of aerial duels.

The French defensive ace is even proficient at playing his way out from the back. Hence, he would be a good fit for Eddie Howe’s brand of football at Newcastle United.

Solet mainly functions as a centre-half but can also operate as a defensive midfielder if needed. We can expect him to add more bite and steel to Howe’s defence and help the Magpies compete across all fronts in the coming seasons. At 23, the future is quite bright for the Frenchman but there are some concerns over whether he would be able to make a smooth transition to life in Premier League football.

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