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Should Newcastle pursue a reunion with Andros Townsend?

By Durim Halimi

NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - APRIL 16: Andros Townsend of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides third goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Swansea City at St James' Park on April 16, 2016 in Newcastle, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images)
NEWCASTLE UPON TYNE, ENGLAND - APRIL 16: Andros Townsend of Newcastle United celebrates after scoring his sides third goal during the Barclays Premier League match between Newcastle United and Swansea City at St James' Park on April 16, 2016 in Newcastle, England. (Photo by Stu Forster/Getty Images) /
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Should Newcastle United take a second look at Andros Townsend if Crystal Palace decide to make him available?

A new report indicates that Crystal Palace could sell Andros Townsend for a bargain price of £14M this summer in an attempt to create more funding to convince Wilfried Zaha to stay. The Eagles’ star player wants to move to a top six side for a chance to play Champions League football next season. As a result, Crystal Palace might have to sell other players to meet Zaha’s financial demands and Townsend is one of the players on that list.

The Magpies were linked with Townsend last season, but he made it clear that he was determined to stay in London. However, it seems as though circumstances have changed at Selhurst Park. If Zaha does leave the club, it is fair to assume that Crystal Palace will be in the relegation mix next season as their performance record plummets without him in the lineup. That being said, returning to Newcastle United might be seen as an upgrade for Townsend, especially if Rafa Benitez stays on as manager.

Pursue Townsend – Yes or No?

I understand that some of you may still be upset with Townsend for turning his back on Newcastle United after the club was relegated at the end of the 2015-16 campaign, but the Toon would be wise to pursue a reunion with the England international. For starters, the price tag of £14M is a bargain price that Newcastle United can afford.

Secondly, the attacking midfielder would bring some much-needed experience to the roster. Townsend has made 185 Premier League appearances over the course of his career and he has a great understanding of English football. It is also worth noting that Townsend is coming off his best season with six goals and four assists as a winger.

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Are those numbers eye-popping? Not quite, but he is a reliable midfielder who is quick on his feet, has good vision and gets involved in most attacks. With Ayoze Perez potentially on the move, Townsend would, in my opinion, be a solid replacement for the Spaniard. Moreover, the collaboration between Miguel Almiron and Townsend on the front-line could cause some major problems for opposing defenses. Both players like to strike from distances and they are both capable of blowing past defenders with their pace. The Magpies should do their best to make this move happen.