Bundesliga giants ‘table offer’ to free agent wanted by Newcastle United, Liverpool and Arsenal

Newcastle United will reportedly face major competition if they make a move for France international Marcus Thuram during the January transfer window.

The 25-year-old striker has been in fine form so far this season after scoring 13 goals and provided four assists in 17 appearances in all competitions for Bundesliga club Borussia Monchengladbach. That allowed Thuram to force his way into the France squad for the World Cup Finals and he has two substitute appearances as Les Bleus came through the group stages to set up a first knockout stage meeting with Poland.

His form has also captured the attention of several clubs around Europe as the former Guingamp frontman prepares to enter into the final six months of his current contract. That means he will be able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with a club outside of Germany in January before making a free transfer switch at the end of the season.

Monchengladbach coach Oliver Neuville has already admitted ‘it will be difficult’ for Thuram to remain at the club, describing the chances of retaining his prize asset as ‘slim’ amid interest from Italy, Spain and England.

He told Radio Sportiva: “He’s having an amazing season. He’s scored a lot of goals. I think it will be difficult for him to stay at Gladbach. If he continues to score so many goals, it’s certain he’ll have many offers from Italy, Spain and England. We must also be a little realistic. I hope he will still be here for a long time in Monchengladbach. But now he’s been called up by French for the World Cup, it will be difficult for him to extend. I hope (he stays). But the chances are slim.”

Newcastle, Arsenal, Liverpool and Inter Milan are all said to have held internal discussions over a possible move for Thuram - but Bayern Munich are reportedly the first club to make a firm move for the forward. Italian broadcaster Sport Mediaset have revealed the Bundesliga giants have offered a ‘lucrative’ five-year deal that would see Thuram join them on a free transfer next summer.