Newcastle United are reportedly hoping to hijack Everton’s move for Oguzhan Ozyakup.
According to The Mirror, Newcastle United are keen to hijack Everton’s move for Besiktas midfielder Oguzhan Ozyakup.
Ozyakup, 25, was in the Arsenal ranks following a 2008 move from AZ Alkmaar, but he left the Emirates Stadium for Besiktas in 2012 after making just two first-team appearances for the Gunners.
The midfielder has developed into a star with Besiktas though, racking up 27 goals and 48 assists in 213 games for the Turkish giants, who now face losing Ozyakup this summer.
Ozyakup is out of contract this summer and has so far refused to pen a new deal, meaning he can move on for free – and a move to Everton has been strongly touted this week.
However, The Mirror now report that Newcastle United are looking to hijack the move, and have held talks with Ozyakup’s agent Kees Vos in a bid to secure his signature ahead of the Toffees.
Ozyakup is understood to want around £48,000-a-week in wages, which Newcastle are willing to meet, and they are now firmly in the running to beat the Toffees to the midfielder’s signature.
Whilst Mohamed Diame has impressed in 2018, Ozyakup could be outstanding next to Jonjo Shelvey in the Newcastle midfield, and it’s no surprise to see Rafael Benitez prioritising the position given questions over Mikel Merino’s future at St James’ Park.
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
