Newcastle United should back Eddie Howe and sign Christian Pulisic in January, claims Sky Sports contributor Paul Robinson.
The Lowdown: Pulisic interest
Newcastle have a long-held interest in Chelsea winger Pulisic with The Mirror reporting as recently as last month that the Magpies are set to make the American their next statement signing.
The 24-year-old joined the Blues for £58m from Borussia Dortmund back in 2019 but has been unable to make a starter role his own due to inconsistent performances and injuries.
Pulisic has started just six Premier League games this season with a goal and an assist the only thing to show from his 16 top-flight appearances all campaign.
The Latest: Robinson’s comments
With Eddie Howe’s side third in the league at this point in time, the Saudi Arabian-backed side have the opportunity to splash the cash to strengthen their cause for a top-four or European place finish.
Robinson admitted his concerns to Football Insider over Pulisic as a player.
“I’m not 100 per cent sold on him but Eddie Howe has been very successful with his transfers so far. I like what he has done there at Newcastle. They should trust him.
“If he wants Pulisic and Maddison they should try their best to get them both. Howe is a brilliant coach but I’m surprised he wants Pulisic. Perhaps he feels he could get more out of him.
“In my eyes, he is a luxury player,” Robinson said.
The Verdict: Back Howe
The Englishman has done an incredible job since picking up the reigns at St James’ Park, taking the Magpies from relegation trouble to a European pushing outfit in just 12 months.
Their incredible rise has come suddenly and earlier than expected during the Saudi-backed era and as a result, they lack squad depth, especially going forward.
With Joelinton now favoured on the left wing and no place of late for Allan Saint-Maximin following three substitute appearances since the World Cup break, it does seem Howe is prioritising a more work-man like team rather than players of greater individual quality.
Therefore, a move for Pulisic would seem unlikely but with Saint-Maximin struggling for full fitness and Miguel Almiron the only other out-and-out winger still in favour at the club, a move would make sense.