Newcastle United target Arnaut Danjuma would bring ‘real excitement’ to the club should he make the switch from Villarreal, according to journalist Pete O’Rourke.

The 25-year-old has been linked with a move away from El Madrigal in recent months due to his impressive performance with the Magpies one of several sides credited with an interest.

What is the latest news involving Danjuma?

Italian outlet Calciomercato has claimed that Newcastle are one of a handful of sides eager to secure the services of Danjuma, although they could face competition from two European heavyweights.

It’s believed that both Chelsea and reigning Serie A champions AC Milan are also eager to prize the Netherlands international away from Villarreal when the market re-opens for business.

The Yellow Submarine are in an extremely strong position around the negotiating table, though, as Danjuma still has three-and-a-half years left to run on his current contract.

Nevertheless, the Spanish outfit are said to be willing to part ways with the skilful winger for a fee in the region of €40 million (£35m).

What has O’Rourke said about Danjuma?

Newcastle have made a very strong start to 2022/23, and O’Rourke believes their interest in Danjuma shows the direction the club is going in ‘right now’ under their ambitious Saudi owners.

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In an interview with GiveMeSport, he said: “It just shows where Newcastle are going right now that they're in the market for these top players across Europe as well.

“And he's definitely somebody who would add to Newcastle's attacking armoury and would bring real excitement to those Newcastle fans right now.”

How well is Danjuma playing this season?

Danjuma excelled for Villarreal last term, registering 16 goals and four assists in 34 appearances, firing his side to the Champions League semi-finals.

However, a muscle injury has limited his game time this time around, and he has been restricted to three goals in nine outings.

That is still a decent return for a player limited to just five starts in all competitions, and Danjuma will be hoping he can rediscover his form from 2021/22 sooner rather than later.

Interestingly, Danjuma has largely been used upfront so far this season rather than his usual left-wing role, something that may make him even more appealing to Eddie Howe and the Newcastle hierarchy.

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