Coral analyse Newcastle United striker targets

Newcastle United, 6/1 with Coral to qualify for Europe next term, are equipped with a £50m war chest. Having just hired Steve McClaren as manager, they are identifying talent across the board to strengthen themselves significantly.

We take a look at three top targets they have been linked to in recent weeks and analyse whether they would be a good fit for the football club.

Charlie Austin
A long-term target, the QPR hitman could well be the subject of a bidding frenzy, with Southampton and West Ham interested in securing his signature.

Having scored 18 Premier League goals this season, he represents the type of goalscorer that Newcastle have been missing since ex-club legend Alan Shearer retired. McClaren has also coached Austin before at Loftus Road when on Harry Redknapp’s staff in west London.

However, he is far from proven, having only had a season in the Premier League and the jury is out on whether he can repeat his form. For £15m, this is a gamble that needs careful due diligence.

Saido Berahino
Emerged as a target only recently, West Bromwich Albion’s star striker has shown signs that he is one of the most natural goalscorers in the Premier League and his pace would give the Magpies an edge.

However, the club have had problems with Berahino’s off-field behaviour this season, which led to a drop in form and Newcastle will likely be wary of this.

With the West Midlands outfit apparently seeking a fee in the region of £20m for the 21-year-old, it could be a too big a risk for McClaren.

Bas Dost
Nothing if not ambitious, landing Dost would send a message to teams across Europe that Newcastle are still a top club. His current employers Wolfsburg challenged Bayern Munich for the Bundesliga title and won the DFB Pokal, while the Tynside outfit were fighting for surival in the Premier League.

Dutchman Dost fired in 20 goals last term for Die Wolfe and his signature would come with a hefty £25m fee at least. He is unproven in England; however at 26, is at the right age to try and adapt to a new league, should he fancy a fresh challenge.