According to the Chronicle, Newcastle have been offered the chance to sign West Ham target Attila Szalai as an alternative to Diego Carlos.
What’s the story?
Well, the Magpies have found negotiations with Sevilla difficult as they struggle to wrap up a deal for Diego Carlos.
The Chronicle explain how the Spanish side are suggesting they don’t want to sell the Brazilian until June.
However, his agent is saying something slightly different, as he hints that an overall package worth £60m might be enough to sign his client.
Nevertheless, it sounds as if Newcastle are being messed around, and as a result, they have been offered the chance to sign Szalai.
The 24-year-old is currently starring for Fenerbahce in the Süper Lig, making 20 appearances in Turkey’s top-flight this season.
It comes after Sky Sports revealed that Szalai is also a target for West Ham.
The Chronicle believe Newcastle would have to pay £17m if they accepted the chance to sign the 23-cap Hungary international.
Szalai’s agency – ROGON – have solid links with Newcastle’s Head of Recruitment, Steve Nickson.
Newcastle should leave Attila Szalai to West Ham
In our view, Newcastle shouldn’t get desperate.
Agents offering their clients around happens more often than you might think, and Newcastle would be silly to accept this offer.
Szalai isn’t exactly coming cheap at £17m, and spending that sum would reduce the amount Newcastle can splash on a better option in the summer.
For now, a six-month loan deal for an experienced Premier League defender would be far more sensible business from the Tynesiders.
In truth, Szalai could arrive in England and struggle hugely in the Premier League, which would be a nightmarish scenario for Eddie Howe.
With Sevilla far more likely to sell Diego Carlos in the summer, we feel it’s worth finding a short-term fix and waiting for better options.
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