Newcastle United's reported January transfer target Dion Drena Beljo has previously named the Magpies as a dream move, having already scored against Sunderland this season. The 24-year-old Dinamo Zagreb forward has been linked with a mid-season switch to St James' Park as the club looks to add firepower to Matthias Jaissle's side.
Impressive goal record in Croatia and Europe
Beljo has scored 13 goals in just 11 appearances for Zagreb in the Croatian league this season, along with four goals in three Europa League games. That European tally includes a goal in Zagreb's 2-0 win at Sunderland's Stadium of Light earlier in November, following a brace against NEC Nijmegen and a strike against Anderlecht.
His success against Sunderland may already endear him to Newcastle supporters, but comments he made in 2022 about his favourite Premier League clubs could further secure their affection.
Beljo's admiration for Newcastle
Asked by Sky Germany four years ago about his future prospects, Beljo said: "I wouldn't mind winning the Premier League either. I watch almost every game in England."
He added: "The best players in the world play there. The Premier League is the best league in the world. Of course, there are Bayern, Paris and Real in the other leagues. But in England, there are so many teams with a lot of quality."
"The football there is very intense, but mainly I watch the games because I play a virtual manager game with my friends. So, I have to keep an eye on everything there. I really enjoy that. Most recently Manchester United (are my favourite team) because of Cristiano Ronaldo, but there is another team that will surely surprise you: Newcastle United."
"Because when I was a kid, I watched the film 'Goal' and the player in that film fulfilled his dream of a professional career at Newcastle. I think Newcastle will be even better in real life. Because of their financial power and their incredible fans."
January window considerations
Newcastle are able to spend in the January transfer window, although they may also look to move some players on to avoid risking breaking financial rules by the end of June. The club signed Matias Fernandez-Pardo in the summer, but he is yet to show he can play as a central striker, while Yoane Wissa and William Osula have just one goal each to their names so far.
