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Newcastle travel to Burnley on Monday night, and if Rafael Benitez is chasing a playmaker in January he should absolutely be keeping an eye on Johann Gudmundsson.
What’s the story?
Newcastle fans are absolutely desperate for some creativity in the final third. The Magpies have won two on the bounce to pull themselves clear of the relegation zone, but a creative attacker must be top priority in January.
Ayoze Perez has taken loads of stick for his performances this year, and a move for Gudmundsson would be perfect for Benitez.
The Icelandic international could replace Matt Ritchie on the right or Perez at the number ten, and has far superior end product to any of the Magpies’ current attackers.
If you haven’t seen Patrice Evra’s bizarre new Instagram post then you need to check out the video below…
Is he good enough?
Gudmundsson is one of the most underrated players in the Premier League, as the 28 year-old has improved massively over the last 18 months.
He was limited to just ten Premier League starts in his first season at Turf Moor, but was crucial in last season’s run to a Europa League spot, scoring twice and adding eight assists.
The versatile attacker has kicked off right where he left off this season too, scoring twice and providing four assists so far this campaign.
Most of his assists for Burnley have come thanks to his excellent crossing from the right wing, something the resurgent Salomon Rondon would absolutely thrive off.
He is an excellent set piece taker, finishes well when he gets the chance, and his work rate under Sean Dyche makes him the perfect fit for Benitez as well, averaging nearly two interceptions per game this season.
Luring Gudmundsson away from Turf Moor may be difficult, but his creativity will be on full show on Monday night, and could just be the missing ingredient in Newcastle’s attack.
So, Newcastle fans, would you back a move for Gudmundsson? Let us know your thoughts by voting in the poll below…