By Noel Whelan

13th Dec, 2022 | 2:36pm

Christian Pulisic tipped to explode at Newcastle United after £40m offer update - pundit

Noel Whelan has backed Christian Pulisic to thrive with regular game time if he signs for Newcastle United in January.

The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, insisted the 24-year-old would give the Magpies a “great chance” of securing Champions League qualification this season.

According to the Daily Mirror (11 December), Newcastle are hoping to make Pulisic their next statement signing in the winter window.

The report claims Chelsea are hoping to receive £40million for the former Borussia Dortmund forward – with Tyneside deal-makers hoping to knock that fee down.

Pulisic impressed at the World Cup in Qatar, notching a goal and an assist to help the United States qualify for the tournament’s knockout stage.

However, he has managed just three league starts this season – a clear indication of his place in Graham Potter’s pecking order.

When asked if the signing of Pulisic would be a coup for Newcastle, Whelan told Football Insider’s Ewan Kingsbury: “Absolutely.

“He’s still at a very tender age. We’ve seen flashes of brilliance, we’ve seen good performances at the World Cup.

“He’s the type of player Newcastle should be looking at.

“He will benefit from playing more regularly in a top side. I don’t think he’s getting the right amount of game time right now to really show what he can do.

“Newcastle will only benefit, as well, from having more options. He can play through the middle, and he can play on both sides.

“He’s got pace, and an eye for a goal – it’s a no-brainer. If they can get him in January, it’d give them a great chance of staying in that top four bracket.”

In other news, Football Insider updates with Newcastle United set to make record £179million-plus announcement.