Alan Shearer has named Yoane Wissa as a key player for Newcastle United this season, provided he stays fit, as the club hopes to add more attacking firepower before the transfer window closes.
The Magpies are still looking to strengthen Matthias Jaissle's squad, with the deadline at 11pm on Tuesday, just over 48 hours away. The summer has been difficult for United following the departures of Sandro Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes and Anthony Gordon, but sporting director Ross Wilson has brought in seven new players so far, with the aim of signing another forward, possibly two, before the window shuts.
Wissa's Key Role
The need for extra goals comes after William Osula was ruled out for several weeks with an ankle injury sustained in the opening game against Liverpool. Wissa started up top against Tottenham Hotspur and scored the vital second goal in the 2-0 win, an overhead flick from Nick Woltemade's nod down.
Shearer had been critical of Wissa and Woltemade at the end of last season after they failed to compensate for the loss of Alexander Isak despite costing a combined £124m. However, he now believes Wissa could be crucial.
“Against Liverpool there were some really good performances, particularly from Yoane Wissa,” Shearer told Betfair. “Last season was a real disappointment for Newcastle and for him personally, but he had a decent World Cup and I thought he was absolutely outstanding against Liverpool. If that's what we can expect, then that's something to look forward to.”
Transfer Hopes
Shearer is pleased with the signing of midfielder Nico Gonzalez, who joined for £50m from Manchester City and was unveiled at St James' Park on Wednesday night. He remains hopeful of more attacking arrivals, with United interested in Lille forward Matias Fernandez-Pardo and Stuttgart playmaker Bilal El Khannouss.
“Gonzalez is a good signing, if they could get another forward in somehow, then I don't think that would be a bad thing either,” added Shearer. “But if they can get a couple in between now and the end of the window, that's certainly what they need.”
Potential Departures
Any new forwards coming in could see Woltemade head out on loan, with interest from Serie A clubs including Napoli and clubs in the Bundesliga. Chronicle Live understands Newcastle would be open to letting Woltemade leave.
