French outlet L’Équipe have released two transfer stories involving Newcastle United this morning.
They report that we’ve entered talks with West Ham to sign Issa Diop, stating that we are expected to launch an initial bid in the ‘coming hours’ of around €10m to €12m (£8-£10m) to test the water.
Diop is said to be ‘open’ to the idea of a January move to St James’ Park, with him expected to be back on the bench when Kurt Zouma returns from injury in the coming weeks.
Elsewhere, the same outlet is claiming that we’re stepping up our interest in 6ft 4′ Monaco centre-back Benoît Badiashile.
They claim that Wolves are putting together an offer worth around €30m (£25m) for the 20-year-old defender, however they also report that Newcastle United are ‘waiting in the wings’ and preparing their own proposal after a series of ‘discreet enquiries.’
It’s said the France U21 international is more likely to leave this summer, but could yet move on this month if the right offer arrives.
As for Diop, it’s difficult to know if West Ham would even entertain the idea of selling a centre-back given they are currently desperate for another one themselves after injuries to Zouma and Ogbonna.
