Newcastle United should sign the 'excellent' Antonee Robinson as a potential replacement for Matt Targett, says Noel Whelan. 

The Lowdown: Newcastle linked with Robinson

Earlier this month, it was reported that Newcastle are interested in signing the Fulham defender, facing competition from Serie A side Inter Milan.

Having made 13 appearances for Fulham in the Premier League this season, the 25-year-old went on to play every minute of action for the USA in the World Cup, making him just one of three outfield players to do so.

And after thriving in Qatar, the Toon's interest in the flying full-back is getting plenty of backing.

The Latest: Get it done

Speaking to Football Insider, Whelan, a former top flight forward with Leeds United, had this to say about Robinson and the possibility of him joining Eddie Howe's side.

"If they went out to get him he would probably be their first choice. I think he fits the bill for what they are now. They are a very attacking unit. From what we have seen from the World Cup, he can do all parts of that game. From box to box defending, he has been excellent.

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"He has got the energy, the pace and that attacking presence when he gets forward as well.

"I think Targett is not that attacking full-back that Newcastle want. He is very steady and consistent but I think Newcastle are looking at that prominence going forward.

"I thought after his World Cup there would be a few people interested because he was excellent and has caught the eye of quite a few people."

The Verdict: A good signing?

This season has seen Robinson make more progressive passes (32) than any other player at Fulham, in addition to making the second-highest number of crosses (41) at the west London club. This backs up what Whelan had to say about the USA international in terms of his attacking presence.

 

Then from a defensive point of view, Robinson has the fourth-highest combined total of tackles and interceptions (33) at Fulham as well as the second-highest number of blocks (22) and third-highest number of clearances (37) at the club.

Taking all of this into account, it's easy to see why Newcastle have got the Fulham full-back on their radar and why we feel they should definitely explore the possibility of signing him.