Newcastle are reportedly in negotiations with Mehdi Zerkane

Follow us on Google Discover

Newcastle United are allegedly in negotiations to sign AS Monaco’s Mehdi Zerkane in the summer.

According to a report from GFFN, Newcastle United are in negotiations with Monaco’s 19-year-old winger Mehdi Zerkane over a summer deal.

The Magpies have survived another enthralling campaign in the Premier League but the club’s biggest challenge will come in the summer.

Manager Rafa Benitez’s contract with the club expires at the end of the season and Newcastle will be dealt a massive blow if they fail to convince him to sign a new deal at the club.

Benitez has reportedly made it clear that he will only sign a new deal if Newcastle owner Mike Ashley backs him in the upcoming summer transfer window.

However, Newcastle have been linked with a move for young Mehdi Zerkane who will be available on a free transfer in the summer.

Sanctioning a move for a free agent will be an easy decision for Mike Ashley and if that can play a part in convincing Benitez to stay, Newcastle will be in good hands for the foreseeable future.

Zerkane is yet to make his senior debut for Monaco in the Ligue 1 but he has shown real promise in the UEFA Youth League this season.

The 19-year-old right winger has scored two and has assisted another in six starts in the competition this season and he would be a fine fit under a manager like Benitez at Newcastle next season.