Newcastle prepare move for 21-year-old attacker from top-flight club – report
By Derek Smithson
Newcastle are interested in signing Saint-Etienne attacker Jonathan Bamba, according to a report.
French outlet Foot Mercato claim that the Magpies are preparing a move for the 21-year-old, but face competition from Italian club Atalanta for his signature.
It is understood that Ligue 1 side Saint-Etienne are now set to make a decision on the future of the winger following the appointment of Oscar Garcia as their new manager.
Bamba is an academy product from French club Saint-Etienne, but has made just 15 senior appearances for them.
The pacy winger has been loaned out three times and spent the second half of last season at Ligue 1 side Angers.
He made 19 appearances across all competitions for them, scoring three goals and supplying two assists in return.
Bamba has represented France up to the Under-20s youth level and is a highly rated talent, but is yet to settle at a senior club since his breakthrough.
Football Insider verdict:
Newcastle have already secured a deal for winger Christian Atsu from Chelsea and it appears to be a position they seem keen on strengthening. Rafael Benitez could do with a top-class wide man to operate on the opposite flank of Matt Ritchie and give the side a real attacking threat. Bamba is not a player that looks ready to walk straight into the Newcastle starting line-up and make an immediate impact on the side. The 21-year-old appears to have great potential and the Magpies would be buying for the future if they signed him. The north-east club need proven players at St James’ Park next year to ensure their Premier League status.
In other Newcastle transfer news, their 25-year-old first teamer is being eyed by a top-flight club.
We’ve launched a << BREAKING NEWS FEED>> exclusively for your club. ‘Like Us’ on Facebook by clicking here if you want 24/7 updates on all Newcastle breaking news.