Newcastle United have now held internal talks over signing Atalanta midfielder Ederson, amid concerns over Joelinton, who has suffered a dip in form.
Widespread reports have suggested Joelinton’s chances of going to the World Cup with Brazil have taken a hit, given that he has struggled so far this season, most recently putting in a poor performance in the 3-1 defeat against West Ham United.
Indeed, the Magpies’ poor start to the Premier League season continued at the London Stadium, and the 29-year-old recorded a SofaScore match rating of just 6.1, having failed to record a shot on target throughout the entire match.
It is not the first time the Brazilian has struggled this season either, being described as “tough to watch” as a result of his performance in the 2-1 defeat against Brighton & Hove Albion last month.
Eddie Howe clearly needs to make changes of some description to turn his side’s fortunes around, considering they are now 13th in the Premier League table, and it has now been revealed that a move for a new midfielder is being considered…
Newcastle hold internal talks over deal for Ederson
According to a report from The i, Newcastle have had doubts about Joelinton since the summer, with some key figures suggesting they need to bring in a new midfielder to replace the former Hoffenheim man, given his issues with injuries.
Atalanta midfielder Ederson is one of the players who has been discussed internally in recruitment meetings as a potential replacement for the Brazil international, having originally emerged as a transfer target nearly two years ago.
It may be a little hasty to give up on Joelinton, given that he has impressed at times this season, being singled out for a solid display in the 2-0 victory against Nottingham Forest at the beginning of October.
However, competition for places is healthy, and the Atalanta star could have what it takes to succeed at St. James’ Park, having been described as “world-class” by one former professional.
That said, there are some indications the 26-year-old would not be much of an upgrade on his compatriot, given that the Newcastle midfielder has outperformed him across some key metrics for midfielders over the past year.
Statistic
Ederson
Joelinton
Assists
0.0
0.12
Tackles
1.71
1.82
Interceptions
1.06
1.08
Aerials won
1.51
2.51
As such, Joelinton may be a more well-rounded midfielder than the Campo Grande-born maestro, and Howe is clearly an admirer, previously saying: “Joelinton is like gold dust because wherever you put him, you know he’s going to do a good job.”
That said, if the central midfielder’s performances don’t improve before January, it could be worth bringing in a new midfielder, and Ederson isn’t the only option on the shortlist…
Newcastle readying bid for Eduardo Camavinga
