Newcastle United
Premier League • England
Newcastle face stiff Premier League competition for talented Scottish starlet
Newcastle United are joined by Watford and Leicester City in their pursuit of young Scottish right-back Calvin Ramsay, from Aberdeen, reports have claimed.
At just 18 years of age, Ramsay’s quality from right-back is mesmerising. The youngster has provided eight assists in eighteen games this season.
Indeed, that level of quality on the front foot from right-back is a tremendous trait to have.
Furthermore, he is the kind of modern, attacking full-back that thrives in the Premier League.
As such, the reported interest from Newcastle, per The Scottish Sun, makes sense. The defensive issues at Newcastle have been apparent this season, and adding a quality defensive player should help stem the flow of goals.
However, that report also states that Watford have registered an interest in Ramsay. What’s more, Claudio Ranieri’s side are said to have formally contacted Aberdeen regarding the services of the youngster.
Watford have problems of their own. The Hornets have not gained a point since September, and are slipping down the Premier League table at an alarming rate.
They are also lacking in both attacking quality and defensive stability. Ramsay seems like the type of player that could bring both of those elements to the club.
West Ham and Newcastle both in for Patrik Schick
West Ham and Newcastle have both been linked with Patrik Schick
Ramsay’s value is around £4million, according to the report. A fee of that nature would be a drop in the ocean for Newcastle, though Watford may be more wary, as they failed with a £2million bid for Aberdeen’s Lewis Ferguson in the summer.
Newcastle are reported to be working on a transfer for Atletico Madrid right-back Kieran Trippier. That deal could put an end to their pursuit of Ramsay.
Although, Trippier is 13 years his senior, and may be able to mentor him, should they both join the club.
Leicester join Ramsay pursuit
The Daily Record reports that Leicester City are also in the running to sign Ramsay.
Indeed, Foxes right-back Ricardo Pereira returned from injury recently, only to break his leg against Liverpool.
In addition, James Justin has been out for almost a year through injury. The Englishman played at right-back for much of the first half of last season.
As such, the Foxes could do with cover for Timothy Castagne, who has deputised in the position of late. Given Ramsay’s inexperience, he may not be a Premier League starter just yet. However, he could certainly be a top signing for the future.
READ MORE: Newcastle named as potential bidder for ‘surprise’ Real Madrid transfer