Newcastle launch late move to pip Italians to strike star and his mind could be made up
Newcastle are hoping to persuade Divock Origi to turn his back on his dream move to AC Milan in favour of a switch to St James’ Park.
Origi has been with Liverpool for eight years, earning hero status in the process. But now the time has come to go and play regular first-team football elsewhere. The battle is on for his services and Milan are winning the race.
Reports in Italy say a four-year deal with Milan is in the bag. Origi is on the verge of signing a pre-contract agreement but Newcastle have not given up.
Sky Italia have claimed that Newcastle have launched a late bid to secure him. They hope the chance to play regular football in the Premier League could tempt him to the north east.
Newcastle need new striker
Magpies boss Eddie Howe is keen to get at least one striker on board for next season. Chris Wood has managed just one goal in 11 appearances since arriving from Burnley. It is still very early days but Howe wants reinforcements nonetheless.
He will also have bags of cash to spend in the summer to find one. But signing Origi on a free transfer is an attractive proposition and the striker would get a chance.
However the reports suggest that Newcastle are fighting a losing battle. The striker is said to have his heart set on a move to the San Siro and will not change his mind.
There is still time for that to change though and Newcastle will plug away until a deal is signed. The money on offer from Newcastle is said to trump what Milan are offering but that is not a motivating factor.
The chance to play for a club like Milan at the San Siro is and Newcastle face an uphill battle. Turkish outfit Fenerbahce are also keen but like Newcastle could miss out.
Milan opportunity
Milan look set to offer Origi the chance to win the first-team football that he craves. Olivier Giroud and Zlatan Ibrahimovic are not getting any younger and Origi could force his way in.
It will be easier than trying to oust Sadio Mane, Roberto Firmino and Mo Salah at Anfield. But in fairness Origi has been happy to play his role with the Reds and it has been a hugely important one.
The striker has scored 40 goals in 171 appearances. He also had loan spells with Lille and Wolfsburg over the years but always returned to Merseyside.
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