Sources: Liverpool and Newcastle race to sign Hungary sensation
Newcastle and Liverpool are both in the running to land Hungarian hotshot Alex Toth from Ferencvaros.
The middle of the park has been a key area that Eddie Howe wants to strengthen in January with several targets identified.
Newcastle reportedly sent a scout to watch Feyenoord star Luciano Valente, who is seen as one way to bolster the midfield on Tyneside.
Adding to their watchlist, sources also told Football Insider that Newcastle are monitoring the ongoing situation of Oscar Mingueza, who is out of contract next summer.
Yet, the Magpies are expected to face competition from the Reds for another transfer target of Hungary international Toth.
Alex Toth’s promise catches eye of top Premier League sides
As I revealed on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, the 20-year-old is being closely monitored by teams from the English top-flight and across Europe.
Toth has pushed his way into the Ferencvaros starting XI this season on a regular basis and has also made nine appearances for Hungary, despite his young age.
Speaking on the Inside Track podcast over the midfielder’s potential admirers, I explained: “He’s a young player who’s earning a lot of plaudits in European football.
“He’s having a good season with Ferencvaros, a Hungary international as well, similar to Hungarian compatriot Dominik Szoboszlai as well in the style of play.
“So, if he’s anything like that, I’m sure there’ll be a number of clubs looking at him. Newcastle have been linked. Liverpool and Brighton have also been watching Toth as well.
“Newcastle have been linked with a few midfielders. So maybe it is an area of the team they would like to strengthen.
“But when everybody’s fit, it’s hard to break into that Newcastle side because you’ve got Tonali, Bruno Guimaraes, Joelinton as their preferred midfield three.
“Then you’ve got the likes of Jacob Ramsey, Joe Willock and others as well who can be called upon. So yeah, I’m sure Newcastle are probably keeping tabs on Toth, like a number of top European clubs.”
Toth signing would signal possible end for Joe Willock at Newcastle
If the Toon were to beat Liverpool and Brighton to the signing of the number 64, it could lead to the exit of another one of their midfielders.
Sources told Football Insider that Newcastle are open to accepting offers for Willock in January.
The Englishman has found life frustrating on Tyneside, given the intense competition in the middle of the park and due to an array of disappointing injuries.
Crystal Palace are keen on signing Willock as Oliver Glasner strives to build more squad depth as the fixture congestion continues to ensue.