Newcastle need a striker and there are five options being considered

The Chronicle recently published an article discussing the seven biggest issues that require attention at Newcastle.

Interestingly, they mention that Rafa Benitez is chasing a striker and presents five options open to the Spaniard. So, lets discuss.

Bas Dost

This man seems to be linked with the club every single window. During the summer of 2015, Newcastle were interested, just as they were twelve months prior. Standing at 6'5" tall, the Dutchman would offer a supreme aerial threat, but based on his performances for Sporting Lisbon last term, there is much more to his game. He is not the fastest or the most mobile, but makes up for it with his persistence. He is 28 years old now, but given that he scored a staggering 37 goals last season, it is clear that he is entering the prime of his career. He would however, come at a significant cost.

Josh King

A choice closer to home. The former Manchester United man truly blossomed into a very fine player for the Cherries last season. Interest in him has shot through the roof, which seems to be the norm for any Premier League goalscorer nowadays. Tottenham Hotspur were linked last month, but were quoted massive money. At 26, he is the perfect age. He is fast, but is also six foot tall and has a well built frame that is suited to the Premier League. The only downside is that he has only really performed at such a high level since the turn of the year. That could go against him as it pertains to potential suitors. Perhaps he will recognise that another season at Bournemouth would be sensible for him. Then again, it would be disappointing if Newcastle didn't even try and sign him.

Islam Slimani

This is an interesting one. Before Newcastle were relegated in May 2016, Slimani was at the top of the list, if they had been able to remain in the top flight. In the end, Newcastle went down and Leicester swooped in for the Algerian, paying £29 million for his services. Some will point to the fact that he cost a lot of money and made little impact and say he should be avoided. However, I think there is a player there. When you look into further detail, Slimani only actually started 16 matches last season across all competitions. He scored 8 times in the process. Injuries seriously restricted him during his debut season in England, as did the Claudio Ranieri debacle. After the Italian's sacking, it seemed clear that Slimani was not necessarily a favourite of Craig Shakespeare's. Aged 29 now, anything more than £20 million is probably too much, but Newcastle are in such desperate need for a striker that you just never know. If he could stay fit, he would score 15 goals for Newcastle in my opinion.

Photo by Ross Kinnaird/Getty Images

Michy Batshuayi

I think I speak for most Newcastle United fans when I say that this man would be an absolutely excellent signing. A loan deal is the more likely option of course, but Chelsea have shown in the past that they are willing to allow promising young Belgian strikers to slip through their fingers. Ahem, Romelu Lukaku. Batshuayi barely got a look in last season as Chelsea romped to the title, but he did score some vital goals, including the one that confirmed their status as champions. He has shown just how good he is this summer, albeit in pre-season. If any deal could be clinched for him, Newcastle will probably have to wait until later in the window, when Chelsea have replacements signed up. This really would be a perfect signing. He would be at the top of my list.

Mattia Destro

The Italian is very much the wildcard here. Currently plies his trade for Bologna and did rather well for them last season. His eleven goals ultimately ensured they kept themselves away from the relegation places. Destro was once hailed as the next big thing during his time at Roma, but issues on his attitude and weight ultimately prevented him from reaching his potential. He is still only 26, and seems to be gradually improving year by year, but there are doubts over whether or not he will ever be a natural goalscorer. Nonetheless, he could well be a decent acquisition for Newcastle, if other primary targets prove unattainable. I would be lying if I said I wouldn't enjoy him and Mitrovic in the same team.