According to BILD, Newcastle have joined Manchester City and Liverpool in the race to bring David Raum to the Premier League.
What’s the story?
Well, the Germany international enjoyed a brilliant season for TSG Hoffenheim, and he now looks set to make a big move this summer.
BILD believe TSG Hoffenheim want €40m (£34m) for their impressive left-back, who scored three goals and provided 13 assists in 32 Bundesliga appearances last term.
Raum actually has a €30m (£26m) release clause written into his contract, although that doesn’t become active until 2023, so the German outfit are able to demand whatever they like at this moment in time.
Manchester City have already made contact with TSG Hoffenheim over a deal, although they are also pursuing Brighton left-back Marc Cucurella.
Liverpool are also interested in Raum, while West Ham are in contention to sign him as well.
However, the biggest rival Eddie Howe will face for the 24-year-old is Borussia Dortmund, who BILD believe are very keen to sign the Nürnberg-born defender.
Newcastle only recently signed Matt Targett on a permanent basis, although Howe clearly wants quality depth in every area.
Newcastle can beat Manchester City & Liverpool
In our view, Newcastle have a good chance of signing Raum, but they have to be quick.
Currently, it seems Pep Guardiola is more focused on Cucurella, while Liverpool only appear to be interested due to doubts over the future of Kostas Tsimikas – the Greece international is wanted by Napoli.
Therefore, Newcastle have a window of opportunity here, which they must seize.
The Magpies have the finances to meet TSG Hoffenheim’s asking price, so they are currently well placed to submit a bid.
If Newcastle drag their heels, however, they may allow Manchester City and Liverpool back into contention, so Howe must be speedy if he really wants to sign Raum.
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