The Rumour Mil – Sanmi Odelusi
Having already completed deals to sign midfielder Gael Bigirimana from Coventry City and defender Curtis Good from Melbourne Heart, Odelusi could join a string of promising youngsters at St James’ Park.
The 19 year old is rated very highly at The Reebok and is now recognised as a player capable of getting into the starting line up following the Trotters’ relegation from the Premier League. The belief being shown by Owen Coyle in the young man suggests that he could develop into a class player.
In fact, the striker was linked with Arsenal not so long ago. Considering Wenger’s commitment to nurturing young prospects for his future squad, being linked to the Gunners was quite an achievement for Odelusi.
It is clear that any move for Odelusi would come about due to United’s recent emphasis on strengthening the youth system.
The striker isn’t good enough to play in the top tier of English football at this time and certainly wouldn’t be able to compete with Ba and Cissé for a place in the team. This could mean that the youngster might be deterred from a move to Tyneside, as I’m sure he’d rather be occasionally playing for Bolton’s first team than constantly playing for our reserves.
What reduces our chances of getting him even further is the fact that Fulham are also interested in the 19 year old. The Cottagers are also a team who have recently looked to strengthen their development squad so could be pretty determined to seal a deal for the Bolton front man.
However, if Odelusi wants to move to a club that can offer him the best facilities through greater spending powers, then the North East should be his next destination.
Despite knowing little about the player, I have no objections to an attempt at signing him. Odelusi is clearly a player who is developing quickly, shown by the rave reviews he’s been receiving from Bolton fans.
He also wouldn’t cost too much considering his age, thus eliminating the barrier of financial demands. So, if the opportunity to sign him comes around, I don’t see why Newcastle can’t grab it with both hands.
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