Newcastle United looking to make Chelsea loanee their first summer signing

Playing for Championship side Newcastle United this season, Christian Atsu has not only helped the Magpies return to the Premier League after just a one-year absence, but has built a good rapport with their fans and their manager as well. Although he was not a regular starter, his appearances down the final stretch of the season were a key factor in Newcastle winning the division.

Unsurprisingly, a transfer to Newcastle has been rumored for some time for Atsu, even as far back as October. So far nothing has been done, but chances are that Newcastle will remedy that oversight at some point between now and the start of pre-season. While it’s not clear if they have a built-in buy option or if they’d have to negotiate a price, the latest rumors put the transfer fee at £6.2m, which would be a 75% profit on Chelsea’s £3.5m outlay in 2013.

Given that Atsu is 25 and will have just one-year left on his contract — not to mention the unlikely prospect of him working his way into Conte’s plans — this deal would represent a win-win-win for all parties involved.

In fact, some reports have gone as far as to call the agreement done already.

Let’s do it.