Newcastle Toons
Fansided

Should Newcastle United recruit notable players from China?

By Durim Halimi

TIANJIN, CHINA - MAY 08: Alexandre Pato of Tianjin Quanjian competes the ball with Li Xuepeng of Guangzhou Evergrande during the AFC Champions League Round of 16 first leg match between Tianjin Quanjian and Guangzhou Evergrande at the Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium on May 8, 2018 in Tianjin, China. (Photo by Lintao Zhang/Getty Images)
TIANJIN, CHINA - MAY 08: Alexandre Pato of Tianjin Quanjian competes the ball with Li Xuepeng of Guangzhou Evergrande during the AFC Champions League Round of 16 first leg match between Tianjin Quanjian and Guangzhou Evergrande at the Tianjin Olympic Center Stadium on May 8, 2018 in Tianjin, China. (Photo by Lintao Zhang/Getty Images) /
facebooktwitterreddit

Would Newcastle United be wise to bring in a quality player from the Chinese Super League this summer?

The Chinese Super League is not known as a recruitment hub for European football clubs. Chinese football is entertaining for domestic supporters, but the league lacks true quality. Despite this fact, it is worth noting that China is home to some well-known footballers.

It is unfortunate that talented players have departed Europe to chase money in China, but some of these players may want to return. Newcastle United have historically recruited within Europe, but would it be worthwhile for the Magpies to test the market in China?

Notable Players

The Chinese Super League is comprised of several foreign players from every continent. However, there are three specific players that Newcastle should express interest in this summer. These three players are listed below.

Alexandre Pato (Tianjin Quanjian)

Alexandre Pato is only 28-years-old and possesses extensive experience playing in an elite European league and in the Champions League. It truly is a shame seeing Pato play his football in China when he still has six or seven years of good football left in him.

The Brazilian midfielder was a top player for AC Milan from 2007 through 2013. Pato would most certainly shine under the guidance of Rafa Benitez in the Premier League and would be a significant upgrade for Newcastle in midfield.

Oscar (Shanghai SIPG)

Of all the players in the Chinese Super League, it is quite obvious that Oscar made the worst decision going to the Far East. At the age of 26, the Brazilian midfielder has made over 130 appearances for Chelsea. At such a young age, Oscar has already been exposed to playing in a top European league and competing in the Champions League.

It is unfortunate that Oscar chased money in a lenient league in Asia. Oscar playing his football in the Chinese Super League is the true definition of wasted talent. The Brazilian star still has so much to offer and Newcastle should remind him of that fact.

Hulk (Shanghai SIPG)

Newcastle are desperate for a quality striker and they can find him in China. Hulk has always been known for his pace, strength and powerful execution. I am not a professional scout, but I am certain that those are the attributes the Magpies currently lack up top.

Hulk is an interesting player for many reasons, primarily because he never truly challenged himself in top European leagues. Of the three players highlighted in this article, Hulk would present the greatest risk for Newcastle due to never being tested in England. However, his 121 goals for Porto, Zenit St. Petersburg and Brazil show that he is worthy of an opportunity.

Recruitment Method

If the Magpies were to turn their attention to recruiting one of these players in China, it would not be easy. It is simple to pinpoint talent and discuss how they would improve the squad, but bringing them back to Europe is more daunting than it seems.

A major reason why it would be so difficult is money. The sole reason these players went to China is because the large sums of money they were offered. However, how long can that greed last?

In order to find out, Newcastle should tailor their recruitment method around that question. In other words, the Magpies must remind Pato, Oscar or Hulk that their skills are still sought after in Europe. Newcastle would have to sell the “we can revive your career” script in the Premier League.

Moreover, Newcastle must emphasize the importance of having a Champions League winning manager in charge. It also would not hurt mentioning the atmosphere and support these players would get under the lights of St. James’ Park.

Next: Lascelles and Shelvey are untouchable

Overall, this recruitment method is much easier said than done, but it does not make the mission impossible. Newcastle are a well-known club seeking to elevate its status in Europe and the only way to do that is by taking some risks.