da bet nacional： According to reports on Sky Sports, Newcastle United have opened talks with Chelsea with a view to completing a permanent deal to sign winger Christian Atsu.
What’s the word, then?
da betcris： Well, the Ghana international moved to St James’ Park on a season-long loan deal last summer after failing to make a single first team appearance at Stamford Bridge since joining the Blues from Porto in 2013, and he helped the Magpies secure an immediate return to the Premier League as Championship champions.
A clause in the move meant that Toon boss Rafa Benitez had the option of signing the winger for £6.2m, but it is understood that he has to make the decision quickly if the deal is to go through.
The Spaniard has decided that he wants to keep Atsu, and he could be his first addition of what is sure to be a busy summer of business on Tyneside.
How well did Atsu do during his loan spell?
While he wasn’t always a regular starter, the Ghanaian did score five goals in 35 Championship appearances and he has clearly done enough to convince Benitez that he can be a vital part of the squad as they look to avoid another relegation battle in the top flight next term.
Is £6.2m a fair price?
It probably is, yes.
Atsu has just a year left on his contract with the Premier League champions and having never featured in the first team for them, he needs to make a permanent fresh start elsewhere.
At 25 years of age there is still plenty of time for him to improve and he could go on to be something of a bargain buy for the Magpies.
What’s the verdict, then?
Well, the deal seems to be getting closer and it is a good and astute start to Benitez’s summer business.
While Atsu may not always be a regular in the starting XI next season, he certainly adds something to the team and has the ability to make an impact from the substitutes’ bench if needed.