Newcastle United need a new centre-forward – and Lyon’s Moussa Dembele could be heading to the Premier League to join Steve Bruce’s outfit.
Newcastle United are unlikely to target the likes of Edinson Cavani or Antoine Griezmann this summer due to Financial Fair Play concerns, according to BleacherReport, with Lyon striker Moussa Dembele a more realistic option.
When the reports emerged that Mike Ashley was packing up his undoubtedly Sports Direct-themed suitcase and heading for the exit at long last, replaced by a billionaire Saudi prince, it was only a matter of time before some of the game’s biggest names were tipped to arrive at St James’ Park in their droves.
And, as it transpired, Sport Mediaset claimed that £87 million Barcelona superstar Griezmann could be one potential option. ESPN believes that PSG legend Cavani is another in the frame, alongside Chelsea veteran Willian and Napoli’s all-time record goalscorer Dries Mertens.
But things are not that simple.
With FFP restrictions in force, Bin Salman cannot simply buy his way to the top of the three. This will have to be a considered and careful operation with Newcastle under pressure to raise money as well as spend it.
As a result, BR suggests that Newcastle will instead target players sitting just below the A-list bracket – such as former Celtic and Fulham starlet Dembele.
A powerful number nine who thrives with his back to goal, the France U21 star would not only be an affordable signing but an intelligent one too. Dembele, who has scored 22 goals this season for Lyon, looks a perfect fit for Steve Bruce’s lone-striker system – if the Geordie gaffer remains at the helm of course.
Lyon paid £20 million to sign Dembele from Celtic two years ago, however, and hard-nosed president Jean Michel Aulas will no doubt demand a sizeable profit.
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