According to Christian Falk, Newcastle are planning to bid for Borussia Monchengladbach forward Alassane Plea within the next 24 hours.
What’s the story?
Well, after making progress in their pursuit of Diego Carlos, it seems Newcastle are now preparing an offer for Plea.
Falk – a respected German journalist – revealed the news yesterday evening around 18:00, so it’s possible than an offer has already been made.
It comes after L’Equipe claimed that the Magpies were eyeing Plea, and have asked Allan Saint-Maximin for his opinion on the player – the pair were teammates at OGC Nice.
It was said that Borussia Monchengladbach may be open to selling the 28-year-old, as he only has 18 months remaining on his contract.
So far this season, the man who has been likened to Harry Kane is struggling in front of goal, scoring just three times in 21 games.
Nevertheless, Plea hit double figures for goals in each of his three seasons at OGC Nice, so he clearly knows where the back of the net is.
Newcastle should sign Alassane Plea
What Newcastle need right now – in addition to quality – is a group of fighters who can drag the Magpies out of this mess.
In that respect, Plea sounds perfect – he has already declared himself as a fighter, as well as someone who refuses to sulk.
After being moved from his favoured centre-forward role to play wing-back, the Frenchman said: “On the left, I am not entirely at home, but I do it for the team, the club. I have always been supported here. It would be a lack of respect to grumble. I’m a fighter, not a guy who sulks. Who am I to refuse to play on the wing?” (Bundesliga)
Now, that is exactly the type of attitude Howe should be looking for.
Interestingly, Plea also likened himself to Pierre-Emerick Aubameyang, as they both moved from France to Germany with great success.
Of course, his goal tally this season may be a concern for Howe, although Plea’s quality isn’t in doubt whatsoever – he’s a fine player.
Keep an eye on this saga, as we could hear about a bid being accepted at any moment now.
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