Newcastle United and West Ham want Benoit Badiashile with the Monaco defender admitting that he dreams of a future in the Premier League, speaking to Goal France.
Not so long ago, Badiashile was just that kid who couldn’t tuck in his chair, receiving a glare from Monaco coach Thierry Henry so piercing it could’ve turned the ice caps into a pile of slush.
The 21-year-old has learned a lot since Henry’s ill-fated spell at the Ligue 1 giants, however. Including – and not limited to – proper table etiquette.
Now one of the most exciting young centre-backs in a country renowned for producing, well, exciting young centre-backs, you should probably get used to seeing Badiashile’s name.
Because the France youth star has, at the latest count, three clubs from the other side of the channel checking in on his progress.
Newcastle, Man United want West Ham want Benoit Badiashile
L’Equipe say that Newcastle United saw a £33 million bid rejected in the middle of the January transfer window. The Magpies are not taking no for an answer however. They will make another approach in the summer (FootMercato).
Newcastle will face competition from West Ham and Manchester United, however. And one suspects that Badiashile is pleased with all the attention coming his way.
“I had some contact with English clubs (in January), but this was just informal contact,” Badiashile explains.
“For me, the Premier League is the best league. So, naturally, I dream about it.”
Badiashile is at pains to point out that – like team-mate and fellow Frenchman Aurelien Tchouameni – he is in ‘no rush’ to leave. But Monaco are known as one of Europe’s most infamous selling clubs for a reason.
- How Rangers’ XI could look in 22/23, including 5 new signings
- How West Ham’s XI could look in 22/23 with 4 new signings
According to FootMercato, an offer in the region of £35 million upwards will be considered.
Newcastle’s pursuit of a new central defender has, thus far, hit more obstacles than a one-legged donkey at the Grand National. Sven Botman is going to Milan, Nico Schlotterbeck to Dortmund while Sevilla are refusing to cash in on Diego Carlos.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
