West Ham-linked striker name drops Newcastle United and Leeds ahead of potential move

Highly-rated Croatian striker Dion Drena Beljo has revealed his admiration for Newcastle United as speculation over his future continues.

The 20-year-old frontman has enjoyed a promising season in his homeland with NK Osijek with nine goals and two assists in 19 appearances in all competitions. His form has been a key reason behind his side’s impressive form that had taken them into third place in the SuperSport NHL table ahead of the break for the World Cup Finals.

Beljo has built on the momentum he gathered last season when he scored 20 goals in 37 appearances in league and cup competitions to earn a maiden call-up to the Croatia Under-21 squad.

Speculation in Croatia has linked Beljo with a possible move to the likes of Leeds United, Borussia Dortmund and West Ham United - and the striker has discussed the three Premier League clubs that have captured his attention and revealed why the film Goal sparked his interest in Newcastle.

He told Sky Sports Germany: “I wouldn’t mind winning the Premier League either. I watch almost every game in England. Honestly. The best players in the world play there. The Premier League is the best league in the world. Of course, there are Bayern, Paris and Real in the other leagues.

“But in England there are so many teams with a lot of quality. The football there is very intense, but mainly I watch the games because I play a virtual manager game with my friends. So, I have to keep an eye on everything there. I really enjoy that. Most recently Manchester United (are his favourite team) because of Cristiano Ronaldo, but there is another team that will surely surprise you: Newcastle United!

“Because when I was a kid, I watched the film ‘Goal’ and the player in that film fulfilled his dream of a professional career at Newcastle. I think Newcastle will be even better in real life. Because of their financial power and the incredible fans. I also like Leeds United, by the way.”