Newcastle United On the Verge of Signing Former Chelsea Star in £31.5m Deal – Report | OneFootball

Exciting Times Ahead: Newcastle Set for Major January Signing

Caught Offside has revealed Newcastle United’s promising position in the race to secure AC Milan defender Fikayo Tomori during the January transfer window. The former Chelsea centre-back, valued at approximately €38m/£31.5m, are reportedly eager for a Premier League return, with Newcastle showing keen interest in bolstering their defensive lineup.

Tomori’s stint at AC Milan has seen him relegated to the bench recently, despite his commendable performances in Serie A. This development places him high on the list for clubs looking to strengthen their squad this winter, with Newcastle leading the pack.

Why Tomori’s Move Matters

Fikayo Tomori’s potential transfer is not just about adding another player to the roster; it signifies Newcastle’s intent to contend for higher stakes. Despite a fallback in securing Crystal Palace’s Marc Guehi last summer due to high demands, Newcastle’s pursuit of Tomori reflects a strategic approach to recruitment, focusing on quality and experience that can drive the team forward.

Photo: IMAGO

Sources close to the deal have suggested that AC Milan might agree to negotiate within the €35-38m range, with Newcastle currently showing the most robust interest among other clubs, including Juventus, who have other defensive priorities.

Strengthening for a European Challenge

Eddie Howe, Newcastle’s manager, is clearly focused on enhancing the team’s prospects of competing for a European spot. Consistency remains key, and a signing of Tomori’s calibre could be pivotal. His experience in top-flight football, coupled with his desire to return to England, could bring much-needed stability and skill to Newcastle’s backline.

The strategic addition of a player like Tomori could significantly impact Newcastle’s performance in the latter half of the season. Given his proven track record and versatility, Tomori represents not just a defensive reinforcement but also a statement of intent from the club to their fans and competitors.

Fan Perspectives and Market Value

For the fans, the price tag of €38m seems reasonable for an England international with Tomori’s credentials. His addition would not only enhance the squad’s quality but also boost morale among supporters, who are eager to see their club compete at higher levels both domestically and in Europe.

Moreover, the situation might evolve depending on AC Milan’s managerial decisions, as the new coach, Sergio Conceicao, could alter Tomori’s current standing at the club. However, Newcastle remains in a favourable position to finalize this impactful signing.

Statistical Analysis by EPL Index: Fikayo Tomori’s Performance Insights

The statistical radar from Fbref offers a compelling view of Fikayo Tomori’s capabilities on the field. Particularly in attacking metrics, Tomori shows considerable strengths. His ability to contribute to non-penalty goals stands out, scoring an impressive 87th percentile among centre-backs. This indicates not just a defender who can hold his line, but one who can step up and provide crucial goals, an invaluable trait for any team, especially one looking to bolster their defence like Newcastle United.

Possession and Passing Proficiency

In terms of possession, Tomori excels in progressive passes, where he ranks in the 92nd percentile. This suggests that he is not only secure in possession but also skilled at advancing the ball effectively, a key attribute for modern centre-backs who are expected to initiate attacks from deep. His pass completion rate and the volume of passes attempted also highlight his reliability and involvement in the build-up play, making him a pivotal figure in transitioning from defence to attack.

Defensive Contributions Highlighted

Defensively, Tomori’s performance is robust, with clearances, blocks, and interceptions (Tkl+Int) demonstrating his active defensive role. His ability to win aerial duels and tackle dribblers effectively makes him a comprehensive defensive package, capable of dealing with a variety of threats.

Tomori’s data profile, provided by Fbref, underscores his well-rounded skill set, making him a highly desirable target for top-tier clubs. His statistics not only reflect his quality but also suggest a high ceiling for development, making him a potentially transformative signing for a club like Newcastle, looking to cement its place in European competitions. His blend of technical ability and defensive acumen positions him as a top candidate for any elite side seeking to strengthen their squad during the transfer window.

Photo IMAGO

Our View – EPL Index Analysis

As a Newcastle United fan, the news of Fikayo Tomori potentially donning the black and white in January is electrifying. Tomori’s potential arrival at St. James’ Park heralds a significant step up in our defensive capabilities. His experience in Serie A, coupled with his time at Chelsea, means he brings not just skill but also a deep understanding of high-level football to the squad.

For us fans, it’s about more than just securing a new player; it’s a sign of our club’s ambitions and the direction we are heading. The management’s willingness to spend a substantial amount—€38m—reflects a commitment to building a squad capable of not just participating in the Premier League but genuinely competing for European placements and perhaps more.

The timing couldn’t be better. With the season heading into its critical phase, strengthening our defence could be the key to turning draws into wins and losses into draws. Tomori’s agility, pace, and tactical acumen would be ideal for Eddie Howe’s set-up, particularly as we push for a higher finish than last year.

In short, this potential move has us all buzzing with anticipation. It’s a testament to our club’s growth and a beacon of what could be an incredibly exciting future. Every match could be a step towards something greater, and with Tomori, those steps might just get a little lighter.