Why Newcastle signing Marcao would be a useful addition
According to The Shields Gazette, Newcastle have kept tabs on Marcao of Galatasaray. They have been after the defender throughout the summer (source – Chronicle Live).
Profile
Born in Londrina, Brazil, Marcao rose through the youth ranks of Avai in his homeland and shot to prominence with Atletico Paranaense in the domestic league. The 24-year-old made his mark in the Portuguese top-flight with Rio Ave FC and GD Chaves, making a combined 49 appearances across all competitions.
Marcao was snapped up by Galatasaray back in January 2019 and the centre-back quickly established himself as a regular fixture at his new club, guiding the Turkish giants to the 2018-19 Super Lig crown (source – Transfermarkt).
He retained his role as a regular starter under Fatih Terim last term, featuring 39 times in all competitions, whilst also impressing in the group stages of the Champions League. The defender is yet to feature for his national team.
Could Marcao be a useful addition?
Newcastle do have a fair few names to line up in central defence like Jamaal Lascelles, Fabian Schar and Paul Dummett. But for a team that plays a back-three formation, they look a bit short. An injury or two could absolutely derail the whole team.
More than anything, they need some fresh faces at the back. They looked shaky on many occasions last season. To put things into perspective, Marcao might not be a household name in Europe but he could be a good fit at Tyneside if the Brazilian’s promising displays in Turkey and Portugal are anything to go by.
Verdict
The 24-year-old looks more than capable of providing Bruce with some valuable cover at the back while also ensuring healthy competition for places. Newcastle can’t afford another injury crisis at the back like they had towards the end of last season, with fixtures set to come thick and fast this season until Christmas due to the delayed start.
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The Brazilian still has his best years ahead of him and early signs suggest that he could well be an excellent long-term investment for the Magpies. He would surely be a very useful addition at the club if they can pull off the deal.
