Newcastle United and Everton are reportedly keen on Valencia defender Aymen Abdennour.
Aymen Abdennour of Valencia challenges Cristiano Ronaldo
According to Foot Mercato, Newcastle United are interested in signing Valencia defender Aymen Abdennour, with Everton allegedly keen tabs on him too.
The Magpies have added one permanent signing since winning promotion, with winger Christian Atsu joining the club on a full-time basis following a loan spell from Chelsea.
Aymen Abdennour in action with Arsenal’s Olivier Giroud
Manager Rafael Benitez wants more additions, and the centre of his defence appears to be one area that could be strengthened, despite having a host of options at the back already.
Ciaran Clark and Jamaal Lascelles fared well in the Championship, but with Chancel Mbemba enduring an up-and-down campaign and Grant Hanley expected to leave this summer, another central defender could be a priority for Benitez.
Aymen Abdennour celebrates
Now, Foot Mercato report that Newcastle are interested in signing Valencia defender Aymen Abdennour, with the La Liga side slapping a €15million (£13million) asking price on his head.
Abdennour, 27, was one of the most highly-rated centre backs in Europe during his time with Monaco, but his 2015 move to Valencia hasn’t paid dividends, as he started just nine league games last season.
Tunisia’s Aymen Abdennour in action
The Tunisian international may therefore pursue a move away from Valencia, and Newcastle are understood to be battling Marseille and even Everton for his signature this summer.
Last summer, The Mirror reported that Everton wanted to sign Abdennour, but that deal failed to materialise. With the Toffees now looking for another centre back, Abdennour could be back on their radar, though it’s noted that Burnley’s Michael Keane remains their top target to boost their defence.
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