Report: Newcastle want Josh King, but Steve Bruce faces dilemma

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Newcastle United are interested in signing Josh King from Bournemouth this summer, but The Telegraph has claimed that Steve Bruce faces a potential dilemma as he looks to land the striker.

The Telegraph reports that the Magpies will be working with a modest budget during this window. It is claimed that Bruce will have just £30 million to spend.

It will be a big blow for Newcastle fans who had previously been dreaming of marquee signings who could immediately take the club to another level.

One player that Bruce does reportedly want is King, who, according to The Telegraph, is set to leave the Vitality Stadium in the coming weeks following their relegation.

However, The Telegraph notes that Bournemouth are looking for a fee of £20 million for King. That would, of course, eat up much of Bruce’s kitty.

It is suggested that his asking price may put Newcastle off.

TBR View: Newcastle desperately need new goalscorer

It is hardly a hot take to suggest that Newcastle cannot afford to go into next season without signing a new striker.

Their highest scoring forward got four league goals last season. They managed to finish 13th in the league, but they surely cannot repeat the feat if their strikers produce similar returns next year.

Admittedly, King was not prolific last term either. He scored six times for the Cherries. But he has reached double figures on two occasions since moving to the south coast.

Some fans may have their concerns about a bid – particularly if two-thirds of Bruce’s budget disappears with it. But King has been a decent performer and has the potential to justify a £20 million fee.