Newcastle United have told Ousmane Dembele that they want to sign him if they avoid relegation this season, 90 Mins report.
Dembele to Newcastle?
Newcastle are competing with a huge number of sides for the skilful winger’s signature, including the likes of Manchester United and Liverpool.
But there is hope at St. James’ Park that a transfer could be agreed if they can maintain their top flight status this season.
That could be easier said than done for Eddie Howe’s men, who have struggled over the first half of the campaign.
Newcastle are currently in 19th place in the Premier League table, but they remain only two points from safety and are expected to reinforce their squad in the coming weeks.
If they were to stay up and then land Dembele in the summer it really would indicate their ambition.
Dembele moved for £135 million just four years ago, and is still regarded as one of the most dangerous attackers in the world when on top of his game.
Unfortunately for Dembele, he has struggled badly to stay fit since moving to Barcelona.
That would be the big issue if he was to move to Newcastle, especially if he was offered the contract he wants, which is worth over £200,000-a-week.
Exciting signing?
If Newcastle could keep the French international off the treatment table there is no question he would be an exciting addition though.
Dembele and Allan Saint-Maximin would have the potential to be an extremely dangerous duo down either flank, if they were to work in tandem.
Indeed, new Barca boss Xavi said he could become the best winger in the world soon after taking over, labelling him as a ‘world-class’ talent (Football Espana).
Barca have tried to keep him around, but their financial struggles mean that is looking less and less likely.
If Newcastle can now poach players from Barcelona it really would highlight how exciting the new era could be at St. James’ Park.
And the transfer plan gives Magpies fans even more reason to hope that the club can survive in the top flight this term.
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