The Rumour Mill: Alessandro Matri

Newcastle look set to continue their hunt for another striker before the transfer window closes, with Juventus' Alessandro Matri being linked with a move to St James' Park.

Despite the signing of Loic Remy on a season long loan from QPR, it looks as though Pardew and Kinnear both feel that another delve into the market is needed in order to establish a squad with enough depth to remain competitive until May.

And following on from reports that the Magpies have shown interest in Genk’s Jelle Vossen, rumours of the Club pursuing Italian international Matri consolidate the likelihood of another striker being signed before September.

The 28 year old, though having helped The Old Lady to two Serie A titles, is no longer considered an essential part of manager Antonio Conte’s set-up, meaning that the striker could be allowed to leave for a fee in the region of £6m.

Matri’s goalscoring record in Italy is impressive, notching 27 league goal in 69 appearances for Juventus, as well as previously scoring 36 in 125 for Cagliari. Though his highest tally for a single league season is 13 goals, the Italian has proven himself to be a consistent performer in front of goal.

The Club would face stiff competition if an approach were to be made, with Everton and Sunderland also intent on adding to their fire power and keen on the AC Milan graduate.

Nowadays, prices for strikers have been heavily distorted what with deals exceeding £50m for the likes of Falcao and Cavani, not to mention £35m for Andy Carroll. Though Matri certainly isn’t young and can’t be considered one to contribute to the long-term stability of the Club, £6m for a front man, if the rumours are correct, would be good business for a man who knows where the goals are and still has a few seasons left in him.

The attack is still and area in which Pardew could do with strengthening, but with Remy now at the Club, there’s no need to shell out ridiculous amounts of money in order to bring a new striker in. For me, whether another front man comes in could hinge upon finding a good deal for one, which in this day and age can be very difficult. I’d be interested to hear your thoughts on a possible deal for Alessandro Matri.

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