Abdulhafiz TeslimNewcastle United may have one area of the squad that could quickly become a concern, and with the transfer window now closed, the club may have to look at an unexpected solution.
The Magpies managed to keep one of their key defenders despite plenty of interest throughout the summer, but his situation has also highlighted a potential weakness in the squad.
With limited natural cover available, Newcastle could find themselves relying on players operating outside their preferred positions if an injury or suspension strikes.
That could leave Matthias Jaissle with a difficult decision to make as the season continues.
One possible solution could be the free-agent market.
Unlike during the transfer window, Newcastle can still look at unattached players and potentially bring in experienced cover without paying a transfer fee. And one name being tipped as a possible option has a particularly interesting connection to Newcastle’s summer business.
The player in question was once regarded as one of the most promising young full-backs in European football before making a move to Manchester United.
He arrived at Old Trafford with a big reputation after establishing himself as a regular starter for Feyenoord and even earning international recognition with the Netherlands.
However, things did not go according to plan in Manchester.
His time at United was disrupted by injuries and inconsistent performances, and eventually he found himself falling down the pecking order before his departure.
Now, at 27, he is available as a free agent and has been included among the players Newcastle could potentially consider for defensive cover.
The player is Tyrell Malacia.
There is an obvious irony to the situation.
Manchester United spent much of the summer pursuing Newcastle’s Lewis Hall, but the move never materialised, with Newcastle ultimately keeping the defender at St James’ Park.
Now, Newcastle could theoretically look in the opposite direction and bring in a former United left-back to provide competition and cover.
Malacia certainly has qualities that once made him highly rated. His performances for Feyenoord earned him a move to England, while his nine appearances for the Netherlands showed that he had reached international level.
But Newcastle would also have to consider the risks.
His spell at Manchester United did not work out, and simply because other players have struggled at Old Trafford before rebuilding their careers elsewhere does not guarantee Malacia would do the same.
At 27, however, there could still be an opportunity for him to revive his career.
For Newcastle, the question is whether they believe that gamble is worth taking.
With Hall now remaining at the club and the squad potentially short of natural cover behind him, a free-agent signing could provide Jaissle with another option.
But bringing in Malacia would certainly be a calculated risk — and one Newcastle would need to get right.
admin
Abdulhafiz Teslim
