According to The Times’ Duncan Castles, Newcastle have made an ‘inquiry’ over the potential signing of Lille midfielder Thiago Mendes – however it looks like yet another deal we’re unlikely to complete with several other clubs interested.
Not only are the big-spending West Ham credited with interest – along with Crystal Palace and Huddersfield – it’s claimed that the 26-year old is valued at ‘around £18m’.
News of our interest comes from a credible source in The Times’ Duncan Castles and Rafa may well need another central midfielder if Isaac Hayden does move on following last weekend’s transfer request, but are we really going to pay anywhere near this much for his potential replacement?
He’s known for his versatility will be a real selling point for Rafa – having played in a holding role, out wide and as an attacking midfielder throughout his career – but the alleged price-tag may just put off a certain Mike Ashley.
West Ham United move for Lille midfielder Thiago Mendes.
Crystal Palace, Huddersfield and Newcastle also interested. #WHUFC #CPFC #HTAFC #NUFC https://t.co/B6VLw1ckS3 pic.twitter.com/aO0ziAorAs— Duncan Castles (@DuncanCastles) July 22, 2018
Here’s what he’s had to say during his latest piece for the Sunday Times:
“West Ham have inquired about signing the Brazilian midfielder Thiago Mendes from Lille as new manager Manuel Pellegrini continues to overhaul his squad
“The 26-year-old holding midfielder is valued at about £18m by his Ligue 1 employers and has also attracted interest from Germany, Italy and elsewhere in the Premier League.
“Crystal Palace, Huddersfield and Newcastle have also inquired about Mendes, who has spent one season in France after joining Lille from Sao Paulo last summer. Lazio and Wolfsburg would also like to take him to Serie A or the Bundesliga.”
He played 35 times for Lille last season and managed 4 goals and 4 assists from midfield.
Incase anything does end up coming of it, here’s a clip of him in action last season:
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The only enquiry worth anything is a public enquiry into how Ashley is destroying a community football club that has been in existence since 1892. His disregard toward every day people and he is the Master of rip off Britain.
Martyn Hancock(Quote)
Charnley How much is Mendes. Lillie £18 million. Charnley says thanks. In Newcastle’s book that is lodged an interest.
Magpie 48(Quote)