KEY POINTS

  • Georginio Wijnaldum returning to Newcastle United could address their defensive shortcomings
  • Wijnaldum is growing frustrated with the lack of chances under Mauricio Pochetino
  • Newcastle could make a push to bring back Wijnaldum by the January transfer window

Georginio Wijnaldum has not been getting the breaks with Paris Saint-Germain and could be an interesting player to watch in the January transfer window.

According to TeamTalk, Newcastle United is keeping tabs on the situation of the 31-year-old midfielder.

Wijnaldum has not been getting playing time under Mauricio Pochetino, and an exit from Parc des Princes is possible.

As of this writing, the Dutch footballer has had only 18 appearances with Les Parisiens. He has only completed 90 minutes on three separate occasions.

Wijnaldum is still hoping for more regular time with PSG, but it is clear that he is far from content with how he is being utilized.

Aware of his situation, this development has spurred rumors that Wijnaldum may just consider a return to St. James Park.

Wijnaldum suited up for the Magpies from 2015 to 2016 before leaving on slightly poor terms.

A reunion makes sense for Wijnaldum, who was once hailed for his versatility by Rafa Benitez when both worked together.

“Because he is so good, he can play everywhere and do well,” Benitez said during an interview with the Echo in 2016. “He is so good up front because he can create, score goals.

“He is one of the players that as a manager we enjoy to coach because he has pace, he has ability, and he is happy when he’s playing really well,” the 61-year-old boss added.

Adding Wijnaldum and hoping he immediately responds well could help the Magpies avoid relegation under Eddie Howe.

Howe has been employing a 3-4-3 system anchored on Jonjo Shelvey and Joe Willock.

However, it would be best to note that both Shelvey and Willock perform better with the ball at their feet.

Their defensive prowess may not prove to be efficient, a reason why acquiring Wijnaldum would make sense.

Wijnaldum’s brilliance took center stage a couple of years ago when he was still with Liverpool.

Georginio Wijnaldum
Netherlands international Georginio Wijnaldum is set to make his Liverpool debut after joining from relegated Newcastle United. Getty Images

Premier League Hall of Famer Alan Shearer praised the Dutch player for his consistency and sees him as a solid defensive anchor for any midfield, BBC reported.

“He offers solidity and is a leader in that midfield. Not many people mention him compared to the others, but he has been a regular 8 out of 10 each week,” Shearer stated.

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