Newcastle United are set to fight for the signature of Assan Ouedraogo. However, they can face competition from both Manchester City and United. The young Schalke sensation has burst onto the scene this year. This season, the 17-year-old made his breakthrough into Schalke’s first squad, and he has not stopped drawing attention. Incredibly, he was included in this year’s NXGN Top 50 Wonderkids list. Newcastle have kept Assan on their list for a long time. Atalanta was also reported to be looking at him. Newcastle are looking at Assan because he is highly versatile. He can play anywhere in the midfield. Assan has scored 2 goals and racked up 2 assists in his 16 appearances.
Newcastle could capitalize on Schalke’s misery
Given their precarious financial situation, Schalke will be hoping they can negotiate a fair price for the young player. Since making it to the semifinals of the Champions League, the former team has fallen far short. They were nearly forced to quit football due to the COVID-19 pandemic, and the club is currently in debt to the tune of over £150 million. Schalke are currently having difficulties in the German second division.
They may not have much choice but to sell one of their prize assets, so they will accept any offers for the player who has already drawn comparisons to Jude Bellingham.
Newcastle have struggled due to the competition in the past. Youngsters have preferred other clubs over them. However, their Champions League performance this season might change some opinions.
Schalke boss Karel Geraerts tried to play down rumours of Ouedraogo’s possible departure. Although he would love to keep him, the financial situation of the club might not allow it. He said,
“Assan is an outstanding player and a big talent, that’s certain. There are many rumours surrounding his name, and the clubs he is being linked to, but that is normal in football.
“As a coach, it is most important for me to have good conversations with him to ensure that he feels comfortable, and to guide him on his journey. We can’t forget that he is still very young. But right now, everything is going very well for him.”
Newcastle will battle it out in the summer to get their man. The Manchester clubs will also not hold back given the talent of the young man.
As featured on NewcastleUnitedNews.org.
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