Newcastle United reportedly want Lorient winger Alexis Claude-Maurice.
According to Sky Sports, Newcastle United are one of the clubs in the race for West Ham United target Alexis Claude-Maurice – but he wants to join Arsenal.
Claude-Maurice, 21, enjoyed a superb campaign with French second division side Lorient last season, hitting 14 goals and four assists in all competitions.
The lightning-quick winger is now attracting major interest, and it’s noted that West Ham had a bid rejected for the Frenchman earlier this summer as they attempt to bring him to the London Stadium.
However, it’s now noted that Newcastle United are also in the race, and whilst they may hope to really challenge for his signature, he wants a move to Arsenal.
A whole host of clubs want Claude-Maurice, but he seems to have his heart set on a move to the Gunners, who allegedly offered £14million for him this weekend.
This may well be another case of Newcastle being unable to really firm up interest in a player due to the uncertainty surrounding Rafael Benitez’s future, with the Magpies yet to secure a new deal for their boss.
Newcastle can’t really go out and splash the cash on new signings as a result, and they’ll have been gutted to see striker Wesley join Aston Villa for that very reason.
Claude-Maurice may well be another name on the Newcastle list, but until Benitez commits, the Magpies won’t be signing anyone – and they may well miss out on another target, much to the frustration of the St James’ Park fanbase.
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