Newcastle United were once again scouting for top European talent last week ahead of what promises to be a very important summer transfer window.

January was a frustrating window, but with our PSR position much improved after a few winter outgoings, Newcastle are almost certain to invest in a new right-winger.

With money to spend and Paul Mitchell finally getting a chance to prove himself in the transfer market, a familiar name he has previous experience with has been linked with a potential move to Tyneside once again. 

Newcastle scout sent to watch Ligue 1 star?

Newcastle had a scout in attendance during the Champions League play-off tie between Benfica and Monaco last week, with a certain Frenchman the player in focus.

According to TBR, Paul Mitchell sent a club official to take a closer look at Maghnes Akliouche, who grabbed an assist in a 3-3 draw with the Portuguese that saw them narrowly miss out on a place in the last 16. 

The 22-year-old winger is enjoying an  impressive season with the Ligue 1 side. He’s weighed in with 12 goal contributions in all competitions, four of which have come in 10 Champions League outings.

Having previously worked at Monaco before joining Tyneside, Mitchell is thought to be a big fan and has scouts on Tyneside who were already keeping tabs on the winger before his arrival. 

This season the Frenchman has worked his way into the first-team, starting 26 games across both Ligue 1 and in Europe, and his versatility to play on both flanks as well as a 10 will have caught the eye.

Akilouche attracting plenty of interest 

It seems the winger’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with the same report stating that Man City and PSG have also taken a liking to Akilouche.

Competition is inevitable for an exciting young talent impressing in one of Europe’s top five leagues, but a move for the Monaco star could represent a shift from Premier League premiums – Mbeumo, Semenyo and Dibling have all been linked – to an overseas talent with bags of potential.

Akilouche is quick with the ball at his feet and has a tendency to cut in on his stronger left foot, making him an ideal right-sided attacker to complete Eddie Howe’s forward line.

The Monaco star would likely not come cheap, but with our increased summer budget there should certainly room to spend particularly in our weakest area of the pitch.