Newcastle target Houssem Aouar has been the subject of some unpleasant posters put up by Lyon supporters.
What’s the story?
Well, the Magpies are said to be eyeing a move for the France international with his contract set to expire at the end of the season – that was according to Calciomercato.
Now, Lyon fans may have given Aouar a nudge towards Tyneside.
Clearly unhappy with his effort levels, the Lyon supporters decided to put posters of the 24-year-old up around the Groupama Stadium telling him to “act or leave”.
Moussa Dembele, Damien Da Silva, Karl Toko Ekambi, Thiago Mendes and Jeff Reine-Adélaïde also had posters put up with their faces on.
Clearly, the Lyon fans are not happy as their beloved side sit eighth in Ligue 1.
It has undoubtedly been a disappointing campaign so far, and it could end up being a sour way for Aouar to leave the club he has been at since 2009.
Lyon is also where the Newcastle target was born, so it must hit him hard to see fans of his boyhood side send such a stern message in his direction.
Nevertheless, it could benefit Eddie Howe as he attempts to bring the Lyon No.8 to St James’ Park.
Newcastle should bid for Houssem Aouar
In our view, competition for Aouar will be incredibly intense when he officially becomes a free agent at the end of the season.
Therefore, we believe Newcastle should submit a bid this month and attempt to jump the queue.
Aouar is just 24 years of age, and seems to be available for a reasonable fee this month as Lyon either accept a cut-price offer, or lose him for nothing. The French giants are said to want £13m.
Even if the Frenchman – who has now decided to represent Algeria – doesn’t perform too well at Newcastle, he should still carry strong resale value given his age and reputation across Europe.
Keep an eye on this situation, as we expect further developments.
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