According to The Athletic, Newcastle have compiled an extensive scouting report on Benfica forward and West Ham target Darwin Nunez.
What’s the story?
Well, The Athletic outline how some of Newcastle’s targets were more planned out than others.
It is said that the Magpies panicked at times, with their pursuit of Lucas Digne described as “puzzling” after his fallout at Everton.
The Frenchman’s representatives made it clear that he didn’t want to join Eddie Howe on Tyneside, although Newcastle still spent days trying to convince him.
Nevertheless, there were more detailed approaches, such as the one for Nunez.
The Athletic claim that Steve Nickson enquired about the Uruguay international after Benfica’s Champions League clash with Bayern Munich in October.
Newcastle continued to make checks on the 22-year-old during January, but decided against making a decisive move.
Newcastle must watch out for West Ham
Unfortunately, Newcastle nearly did this extensive scouting on Nunez for nothing.
According to Sky Sports, West Ham bid £37.43m for the Benfica No.9 a few days ago, which was rejected by the Portuguese giants.
With Europa League football to offer Nunez – potentially Champions League football from next season – the Hammers pose a real threat to Newcastle in their pursuit of the striker.
West Ham could even pinch another target from Newcastle, as Sky Sports add that they are keen to sign Hugo Ekitike.
As you may have heard, Newcastle had a bid accepted for the 19-year-old on deadline day, but couldn’t convince the teenager to join (Guardian).
Clearly, Newcastle and West Ham have similar taste in forwards – only time will tell who goes where.
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