Who else could be joining the Francophone revolution at Newcastle United?
Newcastle United have today been linked with French international striker Loic Remy. The Marseilles forward; a regular in the gossip columns for many years; appears up for grabs for a team willing to stump up a minimum £14 million for the pacy forward.
If Newcastle were to sign him that would take their tally of French speaking players in the first team squad to 11, so why so many?
Could it be that the French league has a similar style to the English game? Perhaps but that doesn’t explain Papiss Cisse and Demba Ba who both came from German football predominantly. Maybe it is purely coincidence that Newcastle’s chief scout Graham Carr seems to have a penchant for French speakers (excuse the pun), or is it a chicken and egg argument, that many French speakers joined therefore signing more made sense as they would always have friends of the mother tongue in the changing room with them.
Here’s a look at which other French stars could be on their way to St James this summer.
Mathieu Debuchy
No secret has been made of Newcastles desire to bring in the Lille fullback after an impressive Euro 2012 for France. His attacking style of play would suit the premier league of that there is no doubt and this one appears a matter of time and negotiation as Debuchy appears to have his heart set on a move to Tyneside.
Yann M’Vila
French international M’Vila once joked he would never leave Rennes; not at least till he scored his first goal for the club; with his tally now standing at 4 it appears his move is overdue. Cementing a place in the heart of France’s midfield come off the back of consistently solid performances in Ligue 1 and at 22 the time is right for a move. No news on any Newcastle interest but after Arsenal pulled out the race M’Vila could give some friendly competition to French speaking companions Yohan Cabaye and Cheik Tiote.
Henri Bedimo
Not French but Cameroonian, powerful left full back Bedimo has been linked with a move to the Premier League this summer after helping Montpellier to an astonishing maiden Ligue 1 title. Newcastle could do with another left back to compliment Davide Santon who is capable of playing either side. At 28 years old costs would be down and could be a good signing for Europa League cover.
Aymen Abdennour
Tunisian centre back Abdennour actually started his career as a left winger but after stepping it at full back he gradually slid into the centre half position with consummate ease. Despite signing a new contract with Toulouse in February the 22 year old is still being linked with a move, with Arsenal interested and would be an excelleny addition to the Newcastle squad.
Which Francophone’s would you like to see in the Black and White of Newcastle this season?
image: © mikebrown59
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