Newcastle United handed boost over free transfer amid fresh Declan Rice claim

Newcastle United are now preparing for tough test in their bid to land a Champions League spot. The Magpies are on course to land a top four spot, but they face a big test in the Midlands this weekend, taking on an Aston Villa side who are among the most in-form teams in the Premier League, chasing down a Europa League spot.

A win this weekend would be a big step towards Champions League football for Eddie Howe’s men, and it would also make it six straight wins for the Magpies. In the meantime, we have rounded up all the latest news surrounding St James’ Park.

Thuram boost

Newcastle have been handed a big transfer boost in their reported bid to land Marcus Thuram.

According to Borussia Monchengladbach sporting director Roland Virkus, Thuram will indeed be available on a free transfer this summer amid his expiring contract. Newcastle are said to have sent scouts to watch Thuram, who competed with France in the World Cup during the winter.

Virkus told via Get Football News Germany: “We were in open exchange with both players and knew the current status. It is a pity that they will not renew their expiring contracts because both of us have given us a lot of sports in the past four years.

“And we also understand that our fans are disappointed that the two don’t stay. However, in recent years, it has always been part of our way to get such talented players, to develop them further – and to let them go at some point because we can’t keep them forever.

“Ideally, we will achieve an attractive transfer with these transfers. Of course, it is not good that this is not the case. But both boys are players who can make the difference. Both have helped us in sports in recent years and are still doing so at the moment. Therefore, despite all justified disappointment, they deserve a stylish farewell.”

Rice interest

Newcastle are said to be interested in West Ham star Declan Rice ahead of this summer. Arsenal have been heavily linked with the Hammers midfielder, who is likely to move on this summer, but The Sun are now saying the Magpies are interested in the England international.

However, it’s worth keeping in mind that Rice is likely to cost somewhere near £100million this summer, given he has already established himself as one of the best players in his position in the Premier League.