Newcastle United are chasing another striker – and have now turned their attention towards Borussia Monchengladbach star Alassane Plea.
That’s according to leading French newspaper L’Equipe, who claim that Newcastle are showing a strong interest in signing Plea.
It’s stated that Gladbach may look to sell Plea this month or in the summer. Now inside the final 18 months of his contract, Plea looks set to leave.
Newcastle may be sensing a bargain, and are now considering signing Plea between now and the end of the January window.
A very interesting part of the report is a claim that Newcastle have asked Allan Saint-Maximin for his opinion on Plea.
Saint-Maximin and Plea played together at Nice during the 2017-18 season, meaning the Newcastle winger should know Plea well.
Saint-Maximin’s verdict could play a key role in Newcastle’s analysis of Plea, who has been linked with a move to England for some time.
Plea smashed 35 goals in his final two seasons at Nice, earning his 2018 move to Gladbach.
In each of his three full seasons at Gladbach, Plea has hit double figures, racking up 37 goals in 107 games.
This season has been a little tricker though, with Plea only managing three goals in 20 games across al competitions.
A fresh start may now be necessary for Plea, who may feel this is his last chance to make a big move.
Turning 29 in March, Plea will soon be into his 30’s and may find that the market for his services dries up, certainly at the top level.
Newcastle now offer a route to the Premier League, though a move to Tyneside comes with a risk. The Magpies are battling against relegation and Plea won’t want to be in the Championship next season.
Likened to Harry Kane, Plea has an impressive all-round game and can even operate out wide if needed.
With Chris Wood on board, another proven goalscorer like Plea could be exactly what Newcastle need.
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