The English club Newcastle wants to approach the Albanian goalkeeper of Lazio, Thomas Strakosha, in January. The so-called "The Toon" sent club agents to watch Strakosha's performance in the Europa League last week live on the green.
The goalkeeper has been active in 16 appearances with the Albanian national team, being labeled as one of the strongest points of the red and blacks. But at Lazio, Strakosha seems to have lost the title of head coach in the team. Italian coach Maurizio Sarri prefers veteran Pepe Reina at the gate. The latter is activated in almost every meeting in the championship. Meanwhile, Strakosha has been left space in the Europa League, but the 26-year-old is not satisfied with the minutes given to him.
Newcastle is looking for a world-class goalkeeper, and their interest in Strakosha is an added appreciation for the Albanian. The latter requires a new adventure, and the English Premier League is one of the most coveted destinations for any footballer.
Among other alternatives to defend Newcastle's gate is Barcelona's Marc-Andre ter Stegen. The fate of this move is expected to be decided by the new Catalan coach, Xavi. The German goalkeeper is one of the Spaniards' most valuable assets, but Newcastle can offer more than milionë 47 million for the player's services. This amount is quite tempting for Barcelona, which is in a very difficult financial position.
But, if the transfer of Ter Stegen does not become a reality, the doors are open for Strakosha in St. James' Park.
Meanwhile, potential candidate for the post of Newcastle coach, Eddie Howe, met with his old friend michael edwards. The latter is expected to hold the post of sports director at Newcastle, in case Howe is placed at the head of the bench.