Pundit can’t believe Newcastle United could sign Tanguy Ndombele after news from France
Noel Whelan has urged Newcastle to “steer clear” of a move for Tanguy Ndombele this summer after a report from France.
The former Leeds striker, speaking exclusively to Football Insider, claimed the 25-year-old could ‘rock the boat’ at St James’ Park – with Eddie Howe looking to build a “steady environment”.
According to French outlet Media Foot (10 August), Newcastle are in “pole position” to sign Ndombele – who has an asking price of around €50million (£42.3million).
The report claims Villarreal are also interested in the midfielder – who wants to secure a place in France’s World Cup squad.
Ndombele is reportedly training individually at Tottenham as Antonio Conte’s side bid to find a new home for the troubled former Lyon ace.
Whelan questioned the midfielder’s “work rate” and “discipline”.
He told Football Insider‘s Ewan Kingsbury: “I think the majority of English clubs would steer clear of him.
“There haven’t really been too many positives from him since he came to Tottenham. I don’t think he’s held himself in the right manner at the club.
“I think if you’ve got half a brain, you stay away from these kinds of bad eggs that have caused problems at other clubs.
“He’s had trouble in the dressing room, hard work seems to be an issue for him, discipline seems to be an issue for him.
“When you’re going to be playing with a high tempo like Newcastle do, you need players who can bring that energy.
“Eddie Howe is trying to build a steady environment, and I think bringing Ndombele in could rock the boat.”
In other news, pundit baffled by confirmed Newcastle news – “I have never even heard of that”.