Newcastle United were monitoring Real Betis winger Ez Abde as a potential replacement for Anthony Gordon last summer, with scouts sent to watch the Morocco international on two occasions. A knee injury on the eve of the World Cup, however, ruled the 24-year-old out of the tournament and ended any possibility of a summer transfer.
Scouting and Injury Setback
Chronicle Live reported in June that Newcastle had twice sent scouts to Betis to watch Abde, who was expected to feature for Morocco at the World Cup. The injury, sustained just before the competition, put paid to a move following a stellar season for the Spanish club.
Abde scored 15 goals and registered 13 assists in all competitions last term, helping Manuel Pellegrini's side qualify for the Champions League. He has started this season in similar fashion, with four goals and one assist so far, including a notable strike in the Champions League against Porto.
Player Profile and Summer Interest
Spanish football correspondent Ruairidh Barlow described Abde as a "quintessential flying winger" with genuine pace and quick feet, attributes that have become invaluable against organised defences. Barlow noted that Abde did not come through a top academy, moving from lower-tier Hercules at age 18, which has left an element of rawness to his game.
Regarding the summer, Barlow said there was a general consensus that had Abde not been injured before the World Cup, he would have been snapped up. There was never any serious suggestion he would leave after that, but not because of talent, performances, or lack of admirers.
Season Progress and Future Prospects
Barlow believes the best of Abde is yet to come, noting his four goals and an assist in 12 outings, including a "phenomenal strike" against Lille in the Champions League. He added that Abde looks "smarter on the ball" and is taking better decisions, with his finishing on the up.
On a potential move next summer, Barlow said it would be a major surprise if Betis and Abde do not cash in, with a move possibly to a club competing for titles if he continues his current form. The only doubt, he noted, is that Abde has spent his whole career in Spain, and there is always a question mark about a cultural fit, but otherwise, everything is there.
Newcastle ultimately signed Bazoumana Toure from Hoffenheim, and whether they will be in the market for a left-winger next summer remains to be seen.
