Newcastle United have joined the race to sign Olympiacos defender Pape Abou Cisse, after scouting the reported Liverpool transfer target while he shines at the Africa Cup of Nations.
That’s according to The Sun, who report the Magpies have opened talks with Thrylos over a possible move this month. The Toon are eager to snap up the 6 ft 6 enforcer to hand Eddie Howe a central defensive upgrade to strengthen their chances of Premier League survival.
Cisse has captivated Newcastle’s talent spotters in Aliou Cisse’s Senegal side after replacing Kalidou Koulibaly against Zimbabwe and Guinea. Les Lions de la Teranga kept clean sheets in their opening two group stage fixtures, to top Group B unbeaten.
Newcastle are discussing a transfer for Cisse with Olympiacos worth in the region of £12m to join them this month. The Karaiskakis Stadium outfit are open to selling the 26-year-old for the sum, but the Magpies may face strong competition.
Newcastle to poach Liverpool target Cisse with Olympiacos transfer?
Newcastle holding talks with Olympiacos could see Howe poach Cisse from under the nose of Liverpool in a January transfer. The Daily Mail reported in October that the Reds were leading the race for the Senegal star. Arsenal and Everton were also contending for a deal
Liverpool, Arsenal and Everton had all scouted Cisse as Thrylos beat Fenerbahce 3-0 in the Europa League away from home. The Greek champions have also enjoyed a formidable defensive core with the eight-cap defender beside ex-Gunners Sokratis Papastathopoulos.
But Jurgen Klopp’s side led the charge, having shown the most interest among the clubs to enquire over his availability. Yet Cisse may now head for Newcastle, as Howe seems set to give the green light to a £12m transfer for the Liverpool target to join from Olympiacos.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
