Newcastle United are still trying to do a deal with Crystal Palace for Andros Townsend.
Newcastle United Rafael Benitez has been coy, when asked directly about whether Chancel Mbemba could be swapped for Andros Townsend by the Chronicle.
Newcastle have been chasing Townsend for much of the January transfer window to date, but they have been unable to get a deal over the line.
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The Magpies were keen to sign Townsend on a loan deal until the end of the season, but Palace were only interested in selling the winger permanently.
Newcastle looked set to be frustrated in their chase for the England international at one stage, but recent reports have suggested that Mbemba could be used in a trade deal.
Palace are thought to be looking for defensive additions, and Mbemba could fit the bill for Sam Allardyce.
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Mbemba has found it difficult to break into Newcastle’s team this season, with Benitez favouring other options.
And when the Spaniard was asked if the reports that the Congolese international could be used in a swap deal were correct, he responded by ducking the question.
He said: “There has not been any progress.
“At the moment, I do not have news one way or the other.”
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