Newcastle United in the race to sign Ronaldinho’s former protégé
On a lot of wishlists for clubs in the January transfer market, this Mexican playmaker is on Newcastle United’s radar.
Newcastle United were able to add quality players during the summer transfer window. But, with injuries and poor form from certain players, the club could be looking for reinforcements again in the winter transfer window. One popular name in the transfer market is reportedly on the radar of the Magpies.
According to 90min.com, Cruz Azul’s Orbelin Pineda is being scouted by multiple clubs in the Premier League, including Newcastle. The 24-year-old has been a star in Liga MX for years and is an established player with the Mexican national team. He has 27 goals and 20 assists in his professional club career.
Pineda came up in the academy of Querétaro and broke into the first team. It was with the club that he got the chance to play with and learn from global soccer legend, Ronaldinho. He explained in an interview with ESPN that the Brazilian gave him advice about being decisive in the final third and always playing the ball forward, not backward.
The El Tri star would bring versatility and an intriguing skill set to the club. He came up as a central midfielder and has transitioned to playing out wide more often. Pineda could slot into a spot on the wing or, better yet, he could add offensive aggressiveness and ability to the central midfield.
Next. This summer signing needs to be benched. dark
With his skill on the ball and playmaking ability, he would be a welcome addition to Allan Saint-Maximin, Miguel Almiron, Ryan Fraser, and a club that loves to play on the counter-attack. But, Newcastle will need to beat out nearly a handful of EPL clubs for his signature this winter.