According to a report from L’Arena, Newcastle United and Schalke are still in discussions over Nabil Bentaleb’s future.
The Algerian spent the second half of last season on loan at St. James’ Park. He played 15 games in all competitions for the Magpies but failed to make a big impression during his short stay at the club.
Newcastle could have signed Bentaleb for £9 million at the end of his loan spell thanks to a clause inserted in his deal. (BILD) However, Steve Bruce’s side decided against it in order to try to lure him in for a much lower fee.
It now looks like their plan has worked. L’Arena claims the Magpies are still interested and Bentaleb is now available for just £5.4 million, but Newcastle could face some competition for his signature.
The report claims that Serie A side Hellas Verona are also interested in the former Tottenham midfielder. Bentaleb has been given time off from training by Schalke to sort his future out (read here).
The Bundesliga side allegedly have no intention of keeping Bentaleb for the new season. The Algerian has to find a new club, which makes it far easier for Newcastle to complete a deal if Bruce really is interested.
However, Newcastle’s ownership status is still unclear. The Saudi consortium who were the front-runners to take over the club announced that they are out of the race after problems with the Premier League.
A new buyer has reportedly come in but, considering how long the last one took, Newcastle fans might have to wait for a while before they have some clarity over who their owner will be next season.
That delay could open up a small window of opportunity for Hellas Verona. The Italian side could use the next few weeks to sort a deal out for Bentaleb who, at a little over £5 million, is a solid addition.
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