Newcastle United is currently facing a striker crisis, as Eddie Howe has just one fully fit center forward at his disposal. During the Magpies’ Champions League match against Borussia Dortmund, Alexander Isak suffered a recurrence of a groin injury and had to leave the field. This setback is expected to sideline him for several upcoming games, leaving Callum Wilson as the sole option to lead the team’s attack. While Wilson is a skilled striker, he has had his share of fitness issues in the past.
This sudden reliance on Wilson poses a problem for Newcastle. If he were to get injured, the team would need to come up with an alternative, potentially fielding someone like Anthony Gordon in the center forward position.
In light of recent events, it’s evident that Newcastle should have considered acquiring a third striker. Alan Shearer, a Newcastle United legend, discussed the idea of bringing in Gabriel Jesus during a conversation on The Rest Is Football podcast with Gary Lineker and Micah Richards. They analyzed Jesus’s performance for Arsenal in the Champions League, acknowledging that he may not be an “elite” striker but still offers valuable attributes.
Richards noted that he saw Jesus as slightly below the elite level, while Lineker emphasized Jesus’s energy, work rate, and versatility, pointing out that he can play across the front line. Shearer agreed that Jesus isn’t elite but would be a good addition to Newcastle given their current situation.
Although Jesus isn’t considered an elite striker, he possesses a high level of talent and fits well with Newcastle’s style of play, particularly in terms of leading the press, a role similar to Isak’s. His versatility aligns with Eddie Howe’s preferences. Shearer would welcome him in a Newcastle jersey.
It’s important to note that there is no indication of Newcastle’s actual interest in Jesus, nor is there any suggestion that Arsenal is looking to sell him. Shearer’s comments are more in the realm of fantasy football speculation.