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Newcastle United transfer suggestions: Forwards

By Durim Halimi

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: Joselu of Newcastle United scores his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St. James Park on October 1, 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - OCTOBER 01: Joselu of Newcastle United scores his sides first goal during the Premier League match between Newcastle United and Liverpool at St. James Park on October 1, 2017 in Newcastle upon Tyne, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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Mohamed Salah has 13 goals this season. Newcastle United? 16.

The Magpies are ranked in the top ten for most shot attempts in the English Premier League this season with 217, but only 16 of those shots have found their way into the back of the net.

Despite his lack of playing time to start the season, Dwight Gayle has started to regain his impressive form from last season by scoring three goals in recent matches against Manchester United, Chelsea and Leicester City. His striking partner, Joselu, has just as many goals, but has also missed several golden opportunities.

With the attacking duo combining for a total of six goals this season, it is evident that manager Rafa Benitez needs to recruit a young forward who is affordable, flying under the radar and is capable of having an immediate impact.

NUFC Transfer Suggestions

Khouma Babacar – Age: 24 – Club: Fiorentina – National Team: Senegal

The young Senegalese forward currently plays for Italian side Fiorentina, and he would give Benitez and the Toon Army several reasons to smile. At the age of 24, Babacar has already played professional football for eight years as he began playing in the Serie A at 16.

Towering over defenders with his 6’3″ (1.91m) frame, Babacar would present defenders and goalkeepers with a serious aerial threat from set pieces and crosses coming in from Christian Atsu and Matt Ritchie on the wings.

It is rare to find a forward who can serve as both a target man for goals and a playmaker for his team-mates, but that is the strongest attribute Babacar possesses. Using his physique, Babacar turns his back to defenders and holds the ball until a run is made to create a scoring opportunity with an assist.

Moreover, he is quick with his movements on the ball and has scored from one-touch shots with power and precision on many occasions. Overall, Babacar’s style of play emulates that of Romelu Lukaku and Papiss Cisse. As a result of his strength, height, quickness and precision, Babacar would be a great candidate to wear the black and white stripes come January.

Raul Jimenez – Age: 26 – Club: Benfica – National Team: Mexico

The Mexican international plays for Benfica in Portugal and has earned a positive reputation for his good form. Jimenez has proven to be a reliable forward when given sufficient playing time, as the 26-year-old has scored 38 goals since 2013.

His ability to make defenders miss with quick feet and close dribbling enables him to get into the penalty area for one-on-one situations with opposing goalkeepers. Jimenez has good movement off the ball as well, which is a great attribute for the creation of passing lanes.

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The fact that Jimenez currently plays in Europe and has Champions League and World Cup tournament experience makes him a strong prospective candidate to play at St. James’ Park.