Monaco are now eying Valenciennes’ Ismael Doukoure as alternative successor for Benoit Badiashile as Newcastle United remain in talks for his transfer, according to Foot Mercato.
The Monegasques are eager to be prepared in case Badiashile leaves the Stade Louis II this month. Multiple Premier League clubs have tracked the defender this season and are now weighing up raids on Ligue 1.
Badiashile has continued to go from strength to strength, despite the sacking of Niko Kovac over the winter. He has made 20 appearances across all competitions so far this term and has helped to keep five clean sheets.
Kovac’s replacement, Philippe Clement, has turned to a familiar player in Stanley Nsoki to prepare for Badiashile’s possible farewell. The Belgian coach worked with the defender at Club Brugge before moving to the Principality.
The Stade Louis II hierarchy are keen to avoid putting all their eggs in one basket, however. So, Monaco have also lodged an enquiry into Doukoure’s availability to leave Valenciennes and replace Newcastle transfer target Badiashile.
Talks between the Monegasques and Les Atheniens remain a simple approach so far. But Clement may face competition from Nice and Strasbourg Alsace for the 18-year-old. He is also only under contract through to the summer of 2023.
Newcastle remain in talks with Monaco for Badiashile transfer
Monaco’s approach to Valenciennes for Doukoure can give Newcastle added hope they can secure a transfer for Badiashile in January. L’Equipe reported earlier this week the Magpies have submitted a €40m (£33m) bid for the 20-year-old.
However, Sky Sports have since added that while talks remains ongoing, the Monegasques could price the Toon out. Monaco are keen to bank closer to €60m (£50m) for Badiashile, a price that Newcastle are reluctant to pay.
A new centre-half is Eddie Howe’s next priority area to strengthen after buying Chris Wood from Burnley, though. Only Norwich with 44 goals conceded over 20 Premier league games have a worse defensive record than United’s 42 shipped in 19 games so far.
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