Newcastle United Opinion: Dorukhan Tokoz would be a good signing for the Magpies this summer
According to Chronicle Live, Newcastle United are weighing up a summer move for Besiktas midfielder Dorukhan Tokoz, with Rafael Benitez looking to bolster his ranks by bringing in some fresh faces in the transfer window.
Tokoz, who is currently regarded as one of the most promising young talents in the Turkish Super Lig, has caught the eye with a series of impressive performances since his move to Vodafone Park last summer.
The 22-year-old has accumulated a total of 3 goals and 4 assists from 19 appearances in the Super Lig this term, establishing himself as a trusted lieutenant under Senol Gunes.
The youngster was rewarded with his first senior international cap for Turkey back in the Euro 2020 qualifiers in March earlier this year and he has been tipped to be a regular for his nation in the years to come.
A youth product of Eskisehirspor, Tokoz made his professional debut in the top-flight in the 2015-16 season before playing in the TFF First League following his team’s relegation to the second-tier.
However, Tokoz has proven his worth as a central midfielder in the top-flight this season.
Noted for his versatility to play both defensive and box-to-box roles in the midfield, the Turk has earned rave reviews for his sharpness, agility and high levels of energy. The youngster is also a good reader of the game, which allows him to anticipate the transitions in play and win the ball back for his team with crucial tackles and interceptions.
Occasionally, he does tend to struggle with his passing, but he has worked on his flaws and at 22, there is still plenty of time left for him to make considerable improvements to his game. He is someone who holds things together in the midfield with his work-rate and tenacity, while also making late but well-timed runs into the box to chip in with valuable goals and assists.
Tokoz has averaged 2.9 tackles, 2 interceptions, 2 aerial duels and 0.9 key passes per game in the Super Lig this term, figures which speak volumes of his well-rounded attributes as an emerging midfield enforcer.
To put things into perspective, Tokoz would be a wonderful signing for the Magpies in the summer, as they look to make multiple forced changes to their central midfield options at the end of the campaign.
The Chronicle Live reported last month that Isaac Hayden, who has by far been Newcastle’s most influential outlet in central midfield this season, is likely to head for the exit door at Tyneside, with the former Arsenal man expressing his desire to stay closer to his family.
Mo Diame, on the other hand, might also complete a move away from the north-east after the Magpies refused to offer him a long-term extension to his current contract (h/t Chronicle Live)
Jonjo Shelvey has fallen down the pecking order and it is still unclear what the future holds for the former Liverpool man at St.James’ Park. Sean Longstaff enjoyed a wonderful breakthrough season before being sidelined with an injury, and although Benitez will have him at his disposal next term, someone like Tokoz can bring a breath of fresh air to Tyneside, while also increasing competition for places in central midfield.
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Rafael Benitez has done a terrific job at Newcastle this season in bringing the best out of the existing players at the club. However, the Magpies would need to spend a handsome amount in the summer to make some alterations to their squad and Dorukhan Tokoz would certainly be a good long-term investment.
