According to The Sunderland Echo, Newcastle are in the hunt for Victor Ibarbo. The 24 year old forward has only got 12 months remaining on his contract with Serie A side Cagliari, meaning that Alan Pardew may be able to secure his services for as little as £8 million.
Having joined Cagliari from Atletico Nacional in 2011 he has been a central part of their squad, making over 100 appearances. A move to The Premier League would require him to find the net more frequently, as his goal record in Italy has been relatively poor. He has only scored 13 times in the league in three seasons. But he is seen as a forward with more to his game than goals.
With Demba Ba having left the club in 2013 for Chelsea, Loic Remy returning to his parent club after a season long loan and Shola Ameobi’s contract expiring it has left the Newcastle with limited options up front.
A striker must therefore be a key transfer target in order to bolster their attack. The Colombian would certainly be a welcome addition to the Magpies as they look to improve their performances next year.
A forward is not their only pressing need though. The sale of Yohan Cabaye to PSG has also left Newcastle short of talent in midfield. The Tyneside team look set for a busy summer having already been linked with a number of players this transfer window, including midfielders Steve Sidwell and Jack Colback as well as winger Wilfried Zaha. However, they are yet to make any signings.
Fans believe they desperately need reinforcement after a disappointing end of the season. Many have become discontent with the club’s lack of transfer activity. Newcastle haven’t made a permanent signing in nearly 18 months. Instead they have relied on a number of loan signings such as Remy.
