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Benfica Midfielder In Newcastle Talks

10 years ago
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Portuguese newspaper Jogo, has reported that the agent of Benfica midfielder Filip Djuricic met senior Newcastle officials in London last week.

The two footed midfielder is 22 and can also play as a second striker, having previously made his name with Heerenveen in the Dutch League, clocking up 28 assists and 26 goals in 111 matches.

A Serbian international, he currently has four goals in fifteen appearances for the national team.

The move to Benfica last summer hasn’t been the greatest success and due partly to differences of opinion with the Portuguese club’s coach, Djuricic hasn’t started a league match since November.

For a number of reasons I can see this particular transfer story having more legs than most.

Firstly, after Cabaye left in January it was stated that Newcastle were close to signing the midfielder, with even Benfica’s coach, Ulisses Santos, saying at the time;

“It is true about Newcastle, I’ve been speaking with Alan Pardew this week and so let us see what happens by the end of tomorrow (Friday).” (which was at the end of the January transfer window). The clubs were said to not have been able to agree a deal in the time available.

In addition of course is the fact that the player appears to have no future at Benfica with only occasional substitute appearances coming his way.

Finally of course is the fact that Newcastle are desperate to bring in players and while Djuricic cost 6m Euros last summer, clearly his value will have been harmed by his wasted year in Portugal and there must be every chance of Mike Ashley driving a hard bargain for the player.

I can see little deviation from a route going forward of a combination of loan signings and more risks on players who are seen as damaged goods, either through ongoing injury problems and others such as Djuricic who have lost their way but can be seen as growing in value if gambles pay off.

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