Newcastle United have been backed to launch a move to sign Chelsea attacker Hakim Ziyech during the upcoming January transfer window. 

The Lowdown: Ziyech's World Cup campaign

After making just nine appearances for Chelsea across all competitions, the 29-year-old started all six of Morocco's World Cup games as they made it to the semi-finals of the tournament.

The Chelsea figure was linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge during the previous summer transfer window to AC Milan but ultimately ended up staying in west London.

Now that Ziyech will be returning to England following his efforts in Qatar, the former Ajax star has been tipped to be a potential transfer target for the Magpies in January.

The Latest: Newcastle backed for Ziyech move

Speaking to SoccerNews, journalist Gianluca Di Marzio had this to say when asked if a potential move away from Chelsea could be on the cards for the £100,000-per-week star following Morocco's World Cup heroics.

He said: "Ajax, that's another story, they are interested, because his heart is still in the Johan Cruijff Arena. They would applaud a return. But after this World Cup I do expect other Premier League teams to make a try at Chelsea, in terms of a loan. Newcastle, for example, which aims for a Champions League spot."

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The Verdict: Worth a shot

Taking a closer look at what Ziyech did for his country during the World Cup, he managed to show how much of an effective player he can be in terms of his attacking and defensive work.

For example, in addition to having more shots at goal (8) than any other Morocco player, he also made more progressive passes (17) and key passes (6) than any of his international teammates.

Then from a defensive point of view, as well as making more blocks (9) than any of his teammates, Ziyech also racked up the third-highest combined total of tackles and interceptions in the squad (17).

Described as having a "wand of a left foot" by Rob Green and 'magical' by members of the media, Ziyech could well be a useful loan signing for Newcastle in January and help them potentially secure a top-four finish, especially if he's able to bring his World Cup form to St. James' Park.