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Newcastle to rival Bundesliga giants for £17m speed machine after recommendation - report
By Will Butcher
Newcastle are set to throw their hat into the ring for Chelsea left-back Baba Rahman after a strong season on loan at Schalke, according to a report.
The Daily Mirror claim Schalke are also keen to keep the Ghana international for another season-long loan.
It is believed the Toon are interested in the 22-year-old after Rahman’s compatriot Christian Atsu suggested him to manager Rafa Benitez, with Atsu also on loan from Chelsea.
Rahman is known for his explosive pace on the left flank, which allows him to burst past opponents in possession or quickly recover his position when caught out.
Rahman has made just 23 senior appearances for the west London giants, after sealing a £17million move from Schalke’s domestic rivals Augsburg in the summer of 2015.
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With the summer signing of Marcos Alonso from Fiorentina in the summer, Rahman was sent on loan and is now set to spark a summer flurry of interest after starring for Schalke.
However, it is said that Antonio Conte is ready to give Rhaman another chance at Stamford Bridge as he knows he’s going to need a bigger squad with Champions League football next season.
Football Insider verdict:
Newcastle desperately need a left-back after gaining promotion to the top tier of English football in the summer. Paul Dummett has struggled this season on the left side of defence, often being criticised and targeted as the Toon’s weak link against their Championship opposition. Bringing Rahman to St. James’ Park would significantly improve the Toon’s left side of defence, with the defender known for his blistering speed and ability to provide an assist. The signing of Rahman, though, is likely to spell the end of Massadio Haidara’s stay on Tyneside, while Morocco international Achraf Lazaar could also be allowed to leave.
In other Newcastle transfer news, fans have reacted to speculation that their club want to sign this Premier League stalwart.
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