Newcastle should keep Bentaleb as the price tag is revealed

With the price tag set on the Schalke loanee, Newcastle United would be wise to make his move permanent.

There will be a lot of business for Newcastle United to handle in the next few months, internally and externally. With a lot of transfer targets around the world, there are also players reaching the end of contracts and loans that the Magpies will want to keep. With the price now revealed, Newcastle should make the loan move permanent of one of their loanees.

According to The Daily Express, Newcastle United will only need to pay Schalke 8.5 million to secure a full move for Nabil Bentaleb. The German side is reportedly interested in offsetting the midfielder. At Schalke, the Algerian international battled injuries and was also banished to the reserves for a poor attitude.

But, with that affordable price, the Magpies should definitely keep Bentaleb on Tyneside long-term. He’s in his prime at 25 years old and brings a different dynamic to the NUFC midfield.

He combines a rough, physical approach (four yellow cards in six Newcastle appearances) with the ability to push forward dribbling the ball, willing to slice passes out wide, or blasting shots from a distance as he did in Newcastle’s intrasquad scrimmage this weekend.

He’s also experienced in the English soccer from his time at Tottenham after coming up through the club’s academy and playing over 60 matches for the first team.

Bentaleb staying long-term would solidify a deep, talented group in central midfield for Newcastle United. Steve Bruce, or a new manager, would be able to select from Bentaleb, Jonjo Shelvey, Isaac Hayden, and possibly both Longstaff brothers. After ironing out the details of extending his loan through the end of this delayed season, Newcastle should look to keep him on Tyneside.