French outlet Foot Mercato report that Newcastle United are one of three clubs pursuing a move to sign Rennes attacker Gaetan Laborde. The Toon have been ‘eyeing’ the striker for ‘several months’ ahead of a possible bid.
Laborde, 28, joined Rennes from Montpellier last summer and enjoyed a wonderful first season. He clocked up 43 appearances, having a hand in 25 goals and assists. Laborde found the back of the net 17 times, creating eight more.
Little surprise that clubs are pursuing him. The signing of Arnaud Kalimuendo may provide added competition for the Frenchman, and the likes of Newcastle, Sevilla and Lille are all now actively considering Laborde this month.
Rennes will hardly want to lose one of their best players in Laborde, given his incredible form last season. He also has a contract at Rennes until 2025. But the report says an offer between £17million and £21million could prove tempting.
Newcastle pursuing Rennes attacker Laborde
Not only is Laborde an excellent striker, but his technique and creativity allows him to play both out wide and as a 10. Newcastle need a striker, but given Chris Wood and Callum Wilson, an out-and-out no.9 would struggle for game time.
Newcastle have interest in James Maddison and that suggests the want for a 10, while a right winger is also lacking. Laborde ticks a number of boxes that are currently unticked on Tyneside. Yes, he is 28, but a very worthwhile addition.
The issue for Laborde is that Rennes are in the Europa League this season. It has seen them made a couple of coups in the window, the likes of Joe Rodon and Arthur Theate. So, would he leave Rennes for Europe-less Newcastle?
Of course, money and the Premier League talks. But he may want to just stay at Rennes for another season, impress in the Europa League and expand the number of suitors after his signature. An interesting decision for Laborde to make.
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