"Left-footed Gazza" linked with Newcastle and Bundesliga move

Newcastle United are targeting a right-winger that has drawn comparisons to Paul Gascoigne but will face stiff competition.

Toon sporting director Paul Mitchell and head of recruitment Steve Nickson will be looking to sign support for Jacob Murphy this summer, having lost Miguel Almiron to his former side Atlanta United in January.

Several standout talents that would prove impressive acquisitions have been linked. Bryan Mbeumo seems to be the favourite, but Antoine Semenyo and Johan Bakayoko are other options.

It is a teenage talent, however, who has been publicly compared to one of the greatest talents England has ever produced.

Dibling a left-footed Gazza

Southampton starlet Tyler Dibling is the “closest thing” to a left-footed Paul Gascoigne is high praise giving to the teenager by Theo Walcott.

Dibling, who was a target of Dan Ashworth in 2022 before the youngster joined Southampton, has enjoyed a breakthrough season in the Premier League with 28 top flight appearances and has been the bright spark in a dull season for the Saints.

His graft, ability on the ball and willingness to get involved in the play are what have drawn the comparisons to Gazza from Walcott, who said on the Premier League YouTube channel:

“There has not been a lot of him, but he’s the closest thing to a left-footed Gascoigne,” he said.

“Even like a Grealish type. What I like about him, he doesn’t just like to go forward, he likes to track back and do the bits that I actually despised. He’s a hard worker. Physical. Comfortable on the ball. Wants the ball at all times. Isn’t hiding away from his teammates.

“He’s probably going to be getting a move.”

Dibling a hot prospect

Tyler Dibling is not just attracting from Newcastle. At least two more Premier League clubs want to add the 19-year-old to their ranks, as do some massive Bundesliga sides.

Until recent developments, Tottenham were believed to be in the lead to secure the signing of Dibling despite competition from the Toon and Manchester United - however the latest update from Florian Plettenberg suggests the exciting talent may move abroad.

The Sky Sports News reporter has said that Dibling is “open to a move to the Bundesliga,” and that RB Leipzig are currently beating Bayern Munich in the race to sign him for a fee more reasonable than had previously been reported - original estimates being £100m.