Newcastle to ‘battle’ Leeds United in race for £20m-rated winger

The Magpies enjoyed a positive January transfer window and are already looking ahead to potential summer arrivals - dependant on which league they will be in come next season.

Eddie Howe is keen to continue bolstering his attack and is already looking to Nantes’ winger Moses Simon.

According to Owngoalnigeria, Newcastle are joined by Leeds United in the race to sign the 26-year-old.

Simon has scored twice and assisted another six goals in Ligue 1 this season, while he also impressed for Nigeria at the Africa Cup of Nations last month.

The winger’s contract with Nantes doesn’t expire until 2024, but the French side are prepared to part ways with the star for at least £20 million this summer.

The report claims both Newcastle and Leeds have offers on the table for Simon, however it is thought that the Tyneside club are likely to be ahead in the race after offering the attacker a £100,000-per-week contract.

Marcelo Bielsa’s side are preparing to potentially lose Raphinha this summer and will be hunting for a replacement, however Newcastle’s offer could be too lucrative to turn down for Simon.

Toon have also reportedly expressed interest in Simon’s international teammate Victor Osimhen, according to CalcioNapoli 1926.

The Nigerian, who has scored six goals for Napoli this season, is valued as high as €100 million by the club president Aurelio De Laurentiis.