Newcastle United Battling For Signature Of Liverpool’s World Cup Winner

Newcastle United are preparing for their return to the Premier League and manager Rafael Benitez is prepared to use his relationship with former employers Liverpool to his advantage.

The Magpies, who secured an immediate return to the top-flight after winning the Championship title last season, have already brought in defender Florian Lejuene from Spanish side Eibar and captured Ghanian winger Christian Atsu from Chelsea- but their business is far from done.

The Sun, quoting The Times, states the next man on Benitez’ short-list this summer is Liverpool youngster Sheyi Ojo as Jurgen Klopp is ready to approve a temporary exit for the 20-year-old, as long as he secures regular playing opportunities.

Recently relegated outfit Middlesbrough are also keen on bringing Ojo to the North East, as new manager Garry Monk eyes an immediate return to the top-flight, but handing the England U20 World Cup winner Premier League opportunities may be preferable.

Fierce competition out-wide at Anfield, which has been strengthened further by the addition of Mohamed Salah from Roma, means that Ojo is unlikely to get the opportunities he deserves on Merseyside this season and Newcastle could be the perfect development path.

Can he be a hit?

After impressing with England’s U20 side this summer, being part of the Three Lions squad that secured the first World Cup trophy for England at any level since 1966, Ojo is one of many members of that side hoping to make an impact in senior football this year.

Ojo’s only two senior opportunities at Liverpool last season both came in the FA Cup against Plymouth but he’s capable of providing an impact at senior level, although Newcastle may struggle to hand him the regular football that Liverpool are demanding.

Having seen Tammy Abraham excel on-loan in the Championship last season, Liverpool may feel a loan to Middlesbrough is more beneficial as the pressure would be significantly less than fending-off relegation with Newcastle but the opportunity of Premier League football would be difficult to turn down.

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