Newcastle United are closely monitoring the progress of Monaco’s highly-rated winger Eliesse Ben Seghir, according to The Chronicle.
The 19-year-old talent is no stranger to Newcastle’s sporting director, Paul Mitchell. The Englishman had previously spent three years with the southern French side, being the general overseer of their transfer operations.
Ben Seghir is a product of Monaco’s esteemed youth academy. He has enjoyed a breakout campaign in Ligue 1 side, notching up 16 appearances for the first team so far, netting five goals and providing three assists along the way. The teenager also scored his first Champions League goal last night, notching in Monaco’s 3-2 defeat at home to Benfica.
Last term, he was limited by injuries so was only able to play 14 matches in all competitions throughout the entire season.
The youngster is more of a left-winger but can play across the front-line, including the right and as well as a No.10.
The youngster already represents Morocco on the international stage, and is thought to be one of the hottest African prospects playing today, having scored three times in eight appearances for the national team.
That said, being predominantly left sided means he plays in a position which isn’t a huge a concern for Eddie Howe at the moment, with the club needing a specialist right-winger. Furthermore, his injury history may also put Newcastle off pushing for his signature, although it has been suggested that Mitchell will push for overseas gems with untapped potential over ready-made Premier League stars likely to cost big bucks.
Ben Seghir’s age, potential and versatility ticks boxes, but his injury record and preference to play off the left suggests he’s unlikely to be a priority or answer to our right-wing woes.
