Newcastle linked with surprise move for Ritsu Doan
Newcastle are showing strong interest in Ritsu Doan.
According to the football transfer rumours in British media, Newcastle are linked with surprise move for Groningen striker Ritsu Doan.
The Japan international joined Groningen from Gamba Osaka for a fee in the region of 1.7 million euros in July 2018. His contract expires in the summer of 2021.
Doan has played 16 times for Groningen since signing from Gamba Osaka, scoring 4 goals and creating 2 assists in that time.
The 20-year-old has long been touted as one of Japan’s most promising young talents.
Ritsu Doan has represented Japan at Under-18, Under-19 and Under-20 level, winning 32 caps and scoring 8 goals, before making his senior international debut in September 2018. As a member of Japan national football team, Doan won 5 caps and he scored one goal.
His performances have seen him become the target of many European clubs including Newcastle.
The Newcastle manager has been impressed by his performances this season and could make a move this winter.
According to The Sun (via The Chronical), “Newcastle want to solve their goalscoring problems with a move for Japan striker Ritsu Doan. The Toon have only scored 13 Premier League goals so far this season, with even rock-bottom Fulham managing three more. Rafa Benitez’s side has picked up just one point in their last three Premier League games but have promising meetings with Huddersfield and Fulham up next. A strong end to the year should put Benitez in a strong negotiating position with want-away owner Mike Ashley in terms of transfer funds for the Winter window. And the Chronical claims 20-year-old Groningen marksman is high on the St James’ Park agenda.”
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Groningen are not in a position where they need to sell and would like to keep hold of the striker, but right offer may force the club to consider a deal.
Stylistically, he would be a great fit in Newcastle.
Newcastle fans would certainly love to see him arrive at the club this winter.
