Christian Kofane: New transfer plan after Newcastle update

Bayer Leverkusen will not entertain offers for Christian Kofane in January despite Newcastle's interest, sources have told Football Insider.

The 20-year-old has established himself as a key player for the Bundesliga outfit, having made over 50 appearances for them, and has enjoyed a strong start to the new season.

A number of clubs in the Premier League and across Europe had considered moves for him during the summer, but he found his exit blocked by Leverkusen.

As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider's Transfer Insider podcast, Leverkusen's stance has not changed and they remain keen to deter any offers for Fofana.

That could see the likes of Newcastle and their Premier League rivals miss out on signing the Cameroon international, although they may be pepared to wait until next summer.

Any January deal looks to have been taken off of the table for now, though, and Newcastle may be forced to look elsewhere if they want to sign a new striker mid-season.

Could Newcastle tempt Christian Kofane away from Leverkusen?

Football Insider revealed on 9 October that Kofane is open to a move to the Premier League, placing a number of his potential suitors on high alert over his availability.

Since missing out on a summer move, he has scored three goals in six appearances, and his long-term admirers have been impressed by what they have seen.

However, those displays have also reaffirmed his importance to this Bayer Leverkusen side, and they are set to block any attempts to sign him in the January transfer window.

Speaking on the Transfer Insider podcast, I explained: "Bayer Leverkusen didn't really want to lose Christian Kofane, especially not mid-way through the season in January.

"I'm sure the German club would like to keep hold of him as well and probably wouldn't want to lose him in the winter transfer window.

"They worked hard to keep him at the club during the summer, and I don't think that stance will have changed because it would leave them short of strikers themselves.

"I'm sure that Kofane will be one of several players on the wanted lists of a number of Premier League clubs including Newcastle, but it might be difficult to do a deal in January."

Which other clubs are interested in signing Kofane?

Bayer Leverkusen remain determined to keep hold of Kofane in January, but given the level of interest in his signature, they could find their resolve tested with big offers.

The likes of Chelsea, Aston Villa and Tottenham are believed to be among the striker's admirers, with all three clubs looking to strengthen their attacking options.

Meanwhile, Football Insider revealed on 11 October that Everton have set their sights on a move for Kofane and could look to get a deal done during the mid-season window.

Regardless of Leverkusen's stance over his exit, Everton are determiend to sign a new striker as soon as possible, with Thierno Barry the only senior option on their books.

Should a mid-season move be ruled out, Everton may well revisit their interest next summer, and are set to keep a close eye on Kofane's displays in the coming season.