Newcastle United approach Monaco over deal for winger backed for Liverpool move

A new name is reportedly on the Magpies radar.
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Newcastle United have reportedly approached former UEFA Cup opponents Monaco over a possible deal for talented forward Sofiane Diop.

The Magpies are pressing on with their efforts to strengthen their attacking ranks after missing out on Reims youngster Hugo Ekitike and being priced out of moves for Leicester City winger Harvey Barnes and Leeds United star Jack Harrison.

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The United hierachy have considered a number of options in France and are understood to have watched the likes of Sochaux youngster Alan Virginius and Bordeaux’s Sekou Mara over the last few months.

However, French outlet Media Foot have now suggested the Magpies are keen on Monaco star Diop and have already made contact with the Ligue 1 club and the player’s representatives.

The report states Newcastle have been informed of the asking price placed on the 22-year-old and know of the player’s demands to make the switch to Tyneside.

Since making his professional debut in a Champions Trophy defeat against Paris Saint-Germain in August 2018, Diop has gone on to 16 goals and provide nine assists in 102 appearances in all competitions for Monaco.

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The hardworking forward has also broken into the France Under-21 side over the last 12 months and has scored four times in his first 11 caps.

The likes of Marseille and Leicester City have been linked with a move for the France Under-21 star in the last 12 months - but former Arsenal star Cesc Fabregas believes the winger should be targeted by two of Europe’s biggest clubs.

The former Spain international has witnessed Diop’s talents at first-hand after joining Monaco in January 2019 and he revealed he has been impressed by a trio of the club’s youngsters.

Speaking to RMC Sport earlier this year, Fabregas said: “When I came (to Monaco), Thierry (Henry) and Vadim (Vasilyev) also asked me to help grow the young people. It was an important point. Today, I feel like I have won the respect and sympathy of this younger generation.

“I hope I have helped. We like each other and I will continue to follow them, exchange with them. I would like to see (Youssouf) Fofana, (Sofiane) Diop or Tchouameni at Bayern or Liverpool!”