Newcastle lining up imminent bid for 20-year-old attacker – report
By Derek Smithson
Newcastle could make an imminent offer for Rennes attacker Adama Diakhaby from Ligue 1, according to a report.
Newspaper France Football claim that manager Rafael Benitez is a big admirer of the 20-year-old after impressing in the French league.
The report details that the Magpies could submit an opening bid for the young Frenchman in the next few days.
Diakhaby is an upcoming talent at Rennes and made his first-team breakthrough last season.
The winger, who can also be deployed as a central striker, helped his side finish ninth in Ligue 1 and ended the season in emphatic fashion.
He came on as a second-half substitute on the final day of the season against title winners Monaco and managed to score a quick-fire brace in a 3-2 loss.
Diakhaby’s form suggests that he is only going to improve and Newcastle could look to bring him to St James’ Park to continue his development.
The youngster made 29 appearances across all competitions last season and managed five goals in return.
Football Insider verdict:
Newcastle have been quiet so far in the window and securing a permanent move for Christian Atsu from Chelsea is their only business so far. The north-east club need to bring in some more attacking options ahead of their top flight return and Diakhaby has now been mentioned as possible addition. The 20-year-old is blessed with good talent and has a massive potential to become a huge goal threat. He was impressive last season during his senior breakthrough and Newcastle would be buying the potential if he joined. However, the Magpies need ready-made products that can walk into their starting line-up and improve Benitez’s side. They were ruthless last summer in their transfer strategy and should follow the same approach this time around.
In other Newcastle transfer news, they are eyeing a two-time Champions League winner.
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