Newcastle United have been told potential striker target Ricky-Jade Jones is the ‘best presser in League One’ as Eddie Howe and Co look to bolster their striker options this summer.
The Magpies only have Alexander Isak and Callum Wilson as recognised first-team strikers, with Anthony Gordon also able to play through the middle. Financial fair play restrictions mean United could be on the hunt for bargain signings this summer, which would allow them to strengthen while spending larger amounts on key targets.
To that end, Newcastle were recently credited with interest in Peterborough striker Jones, who has atracted interest from several big-name clubs. The 21-year-old has scored 12 times for the Posh this season, and chairman Darragh MacAnthony is expecting enquiries about the striker, with the forward said to be valued at around the £2m mark.
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Discussing Jones’ future, MacAnthony revealed he was confident of getting a good deal for the striker – and revealed a key asset which could be music to Howe’s ears. The United head coach encourages his sides to play a high pressing game – and that could be ideal for Jones’ style.
“We have the data which says Ricky is best presser in League One.” MacAnthony told the Hard Truth podcast. “Of course he should have 20 goals by now and the fans have a right to moan, but some of it has been over the top. If Posh fans don’t want him I will have clubs offering millions for him in the summer. I already have.
“I can point to 10 games when Ricky has made a big impact on games we have won. Northampton at home is one. Without his pressing, and with Joel Randall behind him we would not have scored the goals we did and Northampton might have even nicked that game.
“Look at the points per game we accumulated when Ricky started playing as a centre forward compared to the points per game before he was a regular. We had top two form and Ricky played big parts in us winning at Derby and Blackpool and in other important games. We won those games because of the way we play.”
Howe will use pre-season to take another look at Yankuba Minteh following his loan spell at Feyenoord, with the young forward looking to make an impression this summer. However, while United signed youngster Alfie Harrison from Manchester City, they are still light when it comes to striking presence.
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