Newcastle offer £42m for Bundesliga star? – Big claims from ‘source close’ to player

More often than not, it’s best to take things with a pinch of salt when big claims arrive from lesser-known overseas outlets.

That feels worth mentioning before we share some big claims that have emerged on Tuesday lunchtime regarding an alleged bid for a previously linked centre-back.

This comes from Africa Foot, who report that Newcastle United have launched an opening bid worth £42m for Bayer Leverkusen centre-back Edmond Tapsoba.

We have mixed thoughts on this story. In many ways, it could make sense for Newcastle to explore the European market and a supposed long-term target now Marc Guehi looks increasingly likely to join Liverpool instead.

It’s also worth mentioning that the ever-reliable David Ornstein revealed that we held talks with Tapsoba last summer after our attempts to land Guehi hit a wall.

Have we reignited our interest in the 26-year-old? Perhaps. But thinking with more of a cynical hat on, the nature of Africa Foot’s report makes us question if this is being driven by the player, agent or club to encourage bids.

They report that a ‘source close’ to the player has informed Africa Foot of our bid, claiming ‘discussions are underway this week’ over a move to St James’ Park.

It may be true, but why would a source close to the player inform the media? In hope of a bidding war? To make other suitors aware of his availability? It does make you think, as there is often so many agendas at play.

A final thought. Would Newcastle go in with such a high opening offer? Considering we signed a younger Sven Botman for a few millions less, I’d be surprised if we went straight in with £42m.