The 4th Official
·12 April 2024
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Yahoo sportsThe 4th Official
·12 April 2024
In a recent report, talkSPORT revealed that Newcastle United have set their sights on Wolverhampton Wanderers defender Rayan Ait-Nouri. It is believed that the Magpies are showing interest in securing the services of the Algerian left-back in the summer.
Ait-Nouri is having a decent campaign at the West Midlands club after he put in a series of impressive displays for them on the left flank. The 22-year-old has scored three goals and grabbed a couple of assists in 32 appearances for Wolves this season in various competitions.
The Algerian defensive ace has proven his worth as a reliable performer on the left wing and has done well to average 2.0 tackles, 0.9 clearances, 0.7 shots, 0.8 key passes and 2.0 dribbles per game in the Premier League. He has even been careful when distributing possession in the final third as he has completed 86.7% of his attempted passes in the English first division (stats via whoscored).
His current deal at Wolves will run out in the summer of 2026. Thus, the Magpies would have to launch a convincing offer if they want to recruit the Algerian left-back later this year.
BURNLEY, ENGLAND – APRIL 02: Rayan Ait-Nouri of Wolverhampton Wanderers is challenged by Dara O’Shea of Burnley during the Premier League match between Burnley FC and Wolverhampton Wanderers at Turf Moor on April 02, 2024 in Burnley, England. (Photo by Alex Livesey/Getty Images)
Ait-Nouri is a solid tackler of the ball and doesn’t hesitate to put his foot through the ball when required. He is a good dribbler with the ball on the left flank and can create the odd chance for his teammates in the opponent’s half. The Algerian talent can even strike the ball with venom from long range. He is a tidy passer of the ball as well.
Ait-Nouri is playing some of the best football of his career at Wolves this season. Hence, he would be a welcome addition to Newcastle‘s squad if Eddie Howe can devise a way to bring him to St. James’ Park in the summer transfer window.
At 22, Ait-Nouri could mature into a top talent in English football. He would add more quality and depth to Howe’s defence and help the Magpies compete across all fronts in the coming seasons. Ait-Nouri has got enough Premier League experience under his belt and won’t take much time to settle into life at the Tyneside club.