Sky Sports have revealed that Newcastle are still pushing to sign Diego Carlos, with us awaiting Sevilla’s response after launching a new improved offer for the Brazilian yesterday.
They also reveal that our attentions have turned to centre-back following Chris Wood’s arrival, meaning a move for Hugo Ekiteke could take a backseat for now; even though talks are still taking place between ourselves and Reims.
As of last night, they reported that there was a ‘small gap’ between the fee we were willing to pay and Reims’ asking price, with Dharmesh Sheth suggesting that a £22.5m deal with add-ons rising to £25m is currently being discussed.
With us keen to sign TWO new central defenders this month, Sky also claim we are also showing ‘strong interest’ in Monaco’s Benoit Badiashile, however a move for the 6ft 4′ Frenchman has become ‘increasingly difficult’ for two reasons.
Not only did he suffer an injury last weekend – which could rule him out for at least the remainder of the month – Sky Sports are reporting that the Ligue 1 club are currently demanding around €60m for the highly-rated 20-year-old.
All three players are reportedly keen to seal January moves to St James’ Park, but it remains to be seen if deals can be agreed with their clubs.
Here’s their latest update on all three Toon targets, followed by Keith Downie’s claim that Eddie Howe is eager to sign another player with Premier League experience:
Newcastle United continue to push for a deal to sign Sevilla defender Diego Carlos.
It’s been confirmed to Sky Sports News a bid has been made for Carlos and Newcastle are awaiting a formal response.
Newcastle’s primary focus is to bring in a central defender.
They retain a strong interest in Monaco’s Benoit Badiashile. However, that deal looks increasingly difficult for two reasons. Badiashile is currently injured and Sky Sports News has been told Monaco’s asking price was in the region of €60m.
Newcastle remain interested in Reims striker Hugo Ekitike – but, currently it is not a priority position following the signing of Chris Wood from Burnley.
Sky Sports’ Keith Downie tweeted the following soon after, revealing that Howe wants another player with Premier League experience and could end up looking closer to home after the likes of Lille, Sevilla and Monaco have proved tough sellers so far in our bid to sign new centre-backs:
If they don’t want to come, leave them were they are, and look elsewhere
Barry Redfern(Quote)