Newcastle United to beat Sevilla to signing of La Liga star amid ‘lucrative contract’ claims

It is not the first time the Magpies have been linked with a move for the forward.
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Newcastle United are reportedly leading the race to sign Barcelona forward Memphis Depay.

The Dutch international has been linked with a move to Tyneside several times over the last year after struggling to make a major impact at the Camp Nou. Depay joined the Catalan giants on a free transfer from Lyon in the summer of 2021 after impressing during a four-year stay with the Ligue 1 club.

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After scoring 13 goals in 38 appearances during his first year with Barca, Depay has been hampered by thigh problems during the opening three months of the current season and has been limited to just two starts in all competitions. Speaking after scoring his only goal of the season in a win against Elche, the former Manchester United forward said: "I'm happy to score. When opportunities come to me, I try to contribute to the team. I know what I can offer, and I show that in training.

“I'm happy to be given a chance today. I'm not playing much this season, but I'll keep on working in the same way. I need more match rhythm to give my best for the team. I know I have the ability. I'm happy to go to the national team now, then come back with the desire to win titles in this club."

There has been speculation he could be one player allowed to leave the Camp Nou as Barca look to reduce their wage bill and go some way to managing their well-reported financial problems. Spanish news outlet Mundo Deportivo have now reported the forward is ‘the most viable option’ for a January departure as he approaches the final months of his current contract. Allowing Depay to leave on a free transfer is under consideration and Sevilla are said to be keen to offer him and opportunity to remain in Spain.

The 28-year-old is said to be looking for a ‘lucrative contract’ and the report suggests Newcastle would be more likely to meet his demands than the La Liga club.