As reported by The Chronicle, Newcastle United continue to track the progress of Besiktas forward Cenk Tosun, despite his high asking price.

What's the story?

The Magpies have started the English Premier League season decently but know that if they're to achieve a comfortable mid-table finish then reinforcements are necessary in the January transfer window.

Bringing in a striker would be a massive boost to their squad, but with resources limited, can Rafa Benitez bring in the man he admires most?

The Chronicle report that Cenk Tosun remains high on the list of potential signings for Benitez, with the club tracking his progress as recently as Thursday's international between Romania and Turkey.

However, the paper say that Besiktas' £17m price tag is a huge sticking point, with Newcastle not in a great position to be splashing that amount of cash, especially with other positions needing strengthening.

Worth it?

Tosun's asking price may be significant but frankly he's shown enough this season to justify it and if Newcastle want him, they should find the resources to pay up or risk seeing him move elsewhere.

The striker has scored 10 goals for Besiktas already this season, including four at UEFA Champions League level. With five goals in his last seven starts for Turkey too, it's clear his a player at the peak of his game performing at a level that suggests he'd be a hit in the English Premier League.

If he could replicate that kind of goal contribution at St James' Park, there's no doubt he wouldn't take long to justify his price tag.

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