Newcastle United are expected to once again target the French transfer market this summer to refresh their squad with the best young talent from Ligue 1. Following the signing of Ewen Jaouen from Stade Reims, the Magpies are scouring Europe for their next acquisition and are reportedly tracking several players.
Victor Munos Talks Continue
While negotiations over Spain World Cup star Victor Munos continue with Osasuna, Newcastle have been linked with more players from the French league. Sporting director Ross Wilson has previously emphasized the importance of finding value in markets outside the Premier League, as the club aims to identify under-the-radar talents.
Last summer, Newcastle missed out on bids for Benjamin Sesko, Hugo Ekitike, Joao Pedro, Liam Delap, and Bryan Mbeumo, an outcome they are keen to avoid this time around.
Four French-Based Targets
Kevin Danois
Auxerre midfielder Kevin Danois will turn 22 later this month and has caught the attention of several French clubs, including Lille and Lyon. The France U21 international can play further forward and could be an ideal replacement for Joe Willock should Newcastle decide to sell the former Arsenal man. Newcastle have monitored Danois for some time, and he could be available for around €20 million.
Lamine Camara
Newcastle and Liverpool will be watching Monaco midfielder Lamine Camara as he represents Senegal at the upcoming World Cup. The French club is reportedly open to selling Camara, but he comes with a €50 million price tag. The 22-year-old is seen as the ideal replacement for Sandro Tonali should the Italian leave Tyneside this summer, though interest from other clubs means Newcastle may not be able to wait long.
Robin Risser
Despite signing Jaouen this week, Newcastle are still in the market for a new number one goalkeeper, and Robin Risser's name has been heavily linked. The Lens shot-stopper is in France's World Cup squad and could be a cheaper alternative to Manchester City's James Trafford, who also has interest from Aston Villa and Leeds United. Risser is valued at around €30 million, but whether Newcastle firm up their interest in the coming weeks remains to be seen.
Dayann Methalie
Newcastle were linked with Toulouse defender Dayann Methalie in January, although an injury meant he was unlikely to leave France at that stage. The defender only turned 20 earlier this year but has already made 30 appearances for his club. He has progressed through France's youth ranks to the Under-21 level. Capable of playing in central defence or at left-back, Methalie appears to tick many boxes for Newcastle.
