David Norris reckons Newcastle could target Raphinha
David Norris believes Newcastle United could target Leeds United ace Raphinha following their recent £300million takeover.
Saudi Arabia’s Public Investment Fund have bought the Magpies, and the sovereign wealth fund – worth around £320billion – could allow the club spend as much as £190million in January without falling foul of Financial Fair Play rules [Telegraph].
Newcastle will be looking to target players that have proven themselves in the English top-flight, and Norris reckons someone like Raphinha fits the new project at St. James’ Park perfectly.
When quizzed on whether the Brazil international winger, 24, could be on the Toons radar, the former Leeds midfielder told This is Futbol: “Yeah, possibly.
“The best players in that next group who look like they could play for the top teams, that could definitely work for them.”
Possibly
Newcastle will not be going on a spending spree from the look of things, but they will not have problems meeting the asking price of players like Raphinha.
The Brazilian wants to play European football and win major silverware regularly, though, and he is not likely to be keen on moving to Tyneside if he leaves Elland Road.
Leeds are looking to break into Europe soon, but they do not have the cash to splash like Newcastle.
The Magpies have a huge project on the cards, and their next manager and director of football will determine who they want to sign.
While the Liverpools and Manchester Uniteds are the types of clubs Raphinha would love to join if he leaves Yorkshire, a side like Newcastle should not be ruled out of the race given the lessons teams like Manchester City and Paris Saint-Germain taught the world upon their takeover.
It is too early to know their plans, but Leeds will be wary that one of their most-prized possessions could potentially be on his way out next summer.
In other Leeds United news, Jeff Stelling has slamed Sky Sports pundit who mocked Whites in 1-0 loss v Southampton.