Digne tipped to ‘shine’ at Newcastle ‘for years to come’ after talks reported – pundit
Newcastle could “pay over the odds” to secure the signing of Lucas Digne in January, according to Noel Whelan.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 28-year-old would be a “smart addition” for the Magpies.
According to the Daily Mail (20 December), Everton defender Digne is being discussed by Newcastle chiefs ahead of a potential winter window deal.
However, the newspaper claims that the France international is holding out for a more attractive offer.
Digne is on the fringes at Everton after a fall-out with Toffees boss Rafa Benitez.
Whelan insisted Digne would be a “great signing” as the new regime “put up whatever type of money” necessary to secure Premier League safety.
“He’d be an amazing signing for Newcastle, absolutely,” he told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury.
“I don’t think there’s anyone they won’t be willing to consider in January – and they’ll probably end up paying over the odds.
“As more and more games go by and they still don’t have the points on the board, they will get more and more desperate.
“If they drop out it will be horrible for them – all the excitement from that takeover will just drain from the club.
“January is so important, and the owners will put up whatever type of money to get the players in that Eddie Howe feels he needs to secure their safety.
“Lucas Digne would be a smart addition at just 28 years old – he can shine for a number of years to come. He’s got to hit the ground running if they’re going to get to that magic 40 point mark.”
Newcastle are 19th in the Premier League after 18 games.
Digne signed for Everton in 2018 for a reported £18million.
In other news, pundit “100 per cent” sure on Newcastle United signing Edin Dzeko after reported news.