Player urged to turn down potential Newcastle transfer – Would not be “coming in as a big man”

Chelsea forward Hakim Ziyech has been warned against a move to Newcastle United this month as he might be a panic buy.

That’s according to Voetbal Primeur’s Done Deal podcast, who believe Ziyech should be looking at a club who have been following him for a long time.

Ziyech has again been linked with a move away from Chelsea this month after struggling to establish himself under Graham Potter.

The Moroccan demonstrated his ability to the world during the World Cup in Qatar, where he played a key role in his side’s run to the semi-finals of the tournament.

That has led to increased interest in him, with the player having longed desired to get out of Chelsea after a miserable period at Stamford Bridge since joining from Ajax in 2020.

Newcastle are the latest to be linked with his signature as Eddie Howe and his team look for reinforcements this month to build on a superb first half of the season.

That, though, would be a poor move for the Moroccan as far as the Done Deal podcast is concerned, who believe he should be looking elsewhere.

“I wonder, and I know I am antagonising some people, whether Ziyech is wise to do that,” they’re quoted as saying.

“He is a very good player, but Newcastle are running so well with Joelinton, Callum Wilson, Álmiron and Guimarães back there.

“The forwards are running great. So as Eddie Howe, the manager, are you going to change your line-up? Ziyech, despite good performances at the World Cup, is not coming in as a big man at Newcastle.

“You have to look for a club that wants you because they have been following you for years.

“Álmiron is on the right wing there, playing him out of the starting line-up will be very difficult. Anyone who follows the Premier League knows he is having a sensational season.”