Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has indicated that Jason Denayer could leave for free with a return to the Premier League on the cards for the Newcastle United target, speaking via Olympique et Lyonaiss.
It’s hardly been a stellar campaign for one of Ligue 1’s biggest clubs.
That has not stopped the vultures from circling, however, nesting in the Groupama Stadium rafters. Newcastle, in particular, have spent the last few weeks courting a number of Lyon players including, of course, their £33 million January signing Bruno Guimaraes.
If reports are to be believed, Newcastle were willing to pay even more than that for Guimaraes’ close friend and fellow Brazil international Lucas Paqueta.
According to The Athletic, meanwhile, the Magpies also held talks with Moussa Dembele and Jason Denayer, two former Celtic stars who have struggled for fitness and form in 2021/22.
Will Jason Denayer be Newcastle’s next defender?
Denayer is due to become a free-agent next summer. And, according to Aulas, Lyon are planning for life without the one-time Manchester City youngster.
“The ball is in his court. Vincent (Ponsot, director) found the basis for discussions with his agents, then I spoke with Jason,” explains Aulas.
“He does not say no (to signing a new deal). He does not say yes right away (either).
“We still have a chance of being able to extend it. But we also already have the necessary contacts in case that does not happen.”
Denayer, a 33-time Belgium international who helped Roberto Martinez’s side finish third at the 2018 World Cup, is one of a number of central defensive targets on Newcastle’s transfer wishlist.
With his contract expiring, Denayer may be more attainable than the likes of Diego Carlos, Sven Botman and Benoit Badiashile. All of whom are expected to cost somewhere in the region of £40 million.
Lyon, meanwhile, are looking to bring in a high-profile free-agent of their own. The seven-time Ligue 1 champions are making no secret of their desire to bring Alexandre Lacazette back to the club where he played the best football of his career.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
