Newcastle United linked with move for former Sunderland defender

The agent of reported Newcastle United target Jason Denayer insisted his next move will be dictated by “a purely sporting choice”.
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The former Sunderland centre-back is one of several options being monitored by the Magpies as they look to strengthen their defensive ranks this summer.

The Belgian international has enjoyed a productive four-year stay in Ligue 1 after leaving Manchester City to join Lyon in a £9million deal ahead of the 2018/19 season.

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Denayer has gone on to make over 130 appearances for Les Gones - but is yet to agree an extension on his current contract, which is set to come to an end this summer.

His form at the Groupama Stadium has attracted the attention of several clubs across Europe and the defender has been watched by the likes of Napoli, Barcelona and Newcastle over the last six months.

Despite the uncertainty over his future, Denayer remains “comfortable” with the situation according to agent Jesse de Preter.

“Jason remains open to an extension”, he told Belgian outlet Derniere Heure.

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“He is in a comfortable situation and has the luxury of being able to weigh the pros and cons in order to make the right decision.

“His ambition is to play in a Champions League final. Not a dream, an ambition.

“It is often in April-May that clubs make important decisions for the following season.

“He is entering the best four or five years of his career and wants to make a purely sporting choice.

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“If it was only a question of money, he would have already signed elsewhere.

“If he has to leave Lyon, he wants do it as he came: as a gentleman.

“But we want to avoid getting into a conflict and the situation becoming explosive.”

Denayer has been out of action since December with an ankle injury and it is not yet known whether he will feature for Lyon in their visit to Lorient on Friday night.