Newcastle United should make a move for West Ham United versatile star Michail Antonio as opposed to Crystal Palace winger Andros Townsend.

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With Matt Ritchie seemingly heading towards the exit gates for pastures new at Stoke City, Newcastle are in need of a new wide man.

Townsend has been heavily linked with a return to the club that he left in 2016 following their relegation to the Championship, but the Magpies may want to reconsider.

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According to a report from Sky Sports News on Monday, West Ham are willing to listen to offers upwards of £15m for Antonio.

The 2017-18 campaign was difficult for the 28-year-old as injuries prevented him from having a regular run in the team.

Antonio has been at West Ham since 2015 when he signed from Nottingham Forest, but it seems that new manager Manuel Pellegrini does not see him in his plans.

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Why is Antonio a better option than Townsend?

From a financial point of view, the Hammers player is the cheaper option, but he also provides more than Townsend.

Antonio can fill the space left behind by Ritchie on the right wing, but he is versatile enough in that he can also play on the left.

On top of that, the Englishman has proven that he can do a job at right-back and even in a more attacking role.

With Rafael Benitez determined not to drop into another relegation battle with Newcastle, having multiple options would be warmly welcomed.

Antonio is also well versed in Premier League football having scored 20 goals in 76 top flight appearances compared to 14 in 147 for Townsend, and he wouldn't take too long to settle into the team.

If West Ham are willing to sell, then Newcastle should prioritise a move.