Key Newcastle United transfer target monitored by Erik ten Hag’s Manchester United

Eddie Howe has reportedly turned to France as he looks to strengthen his defensive options during the summer transfer window.

Not for the first time in recent months, the Magpies have been linked with a move for Monaco’s highly-rated centre-back Benoit Badiashile.

The 21-year-old defender was believed to have been the subject of an offer from Newcastle during the January transfer window before they switched their attention to an ultimately successful deal to bring Brighton and Hove Albion defender Dan Burn to St James Park.

The interest in Badiashile is reportedly set to be revisited at the end of the season and he is one of a number of players under consideration by the Magpies hierachy as they look to build on the momentum being built up by an impressive run of form.

However, The Sun have reported Manchester United are long-term admirers of Badiashile and are keen to make the Frenchman one of his first new additions of Erik ten Hag’s reign at Old Trafford.

Premier League rivals eye move for midfielder watched by Magpies

Newcastle are continuing to monitor Lens midfielder Seko Fofana - but are just one of a number of clubs that are keeping an eye on the Ivory Coast international.

French outlet But! Football Club have revealed Spurs have sent a scout to watch Fofana in his last two appearances for the Ligue 1 club and could make a move for the midfielder this summer.

The report also suggested Italian giants AC Milan consider Fofana as a backup option if their planned move for Lille’s Renato Sanches falls through.

Leicester City and Aston Villa have also been credited with an interest in the former Manchester City player, who has been one of the most consistent midfielders in France’s top tier throughtout the current season.