According to Foot Mercato, Newcastle are in talks with the agent of Nabil Fekir, as the new owners look to bolster the squad with signings.
What’s the story?
Well, the French news outlet believe initial talks have taken place between Newcastle and the Frenchman, who cost Real Betis £17.7m.
Interestingly, Estadio Deportivo revealed that the Spanish side were actually fearful of Newcastle poaching Fekir from them.
Now, those fears have become reality – according to Foot Mercato.
The 28-year-old’s contract expires in June 2023, which means, if he doesn’t sign a new deal, Real Betis must sell him in 2022 or they risk losing him for nothing.
Fekir’s name is among Newcastle’s January shortlist, with a separate shortlist made for the summer transfer window according to 90min.
What can Nabil Fekir bring to Newcastle?
Well, the 25-cap France international is a player of some pedigree.
Jürgen Klopp and Liverpool came close to signing him in 2018, and Fekir even underwent a medical ahead of a £53m move to Anfield.
However, the Reds found a knee issue, and pulled the plug on the deal.
That didn’t stop Real Betis from signing him, and Fekir has become a fan favourite in La Liga.
In terms of his playing style, Fekir has been likened to Real Madrid and Belgium forward Eden Hazard, formerly of Chelsea.
The comparison was made in a scout report of the Newcastle target from Outside of the Boot, who wrote that Fekir’s strength on the ball – despite his small frame – and acceleration remind them of Hazard.
If Fekir can give Newcastle even a third of what Hazard brought to Chelsea, the Magpies will soar up the Premier League table in no time.
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