‘Some things have changed’ - Our view on Lucas Digne and the latest names to be linked with Newcastle United

Sven Botman - Lille

LK: “The talk this week is of Newcastle being told this deal is a ‘no go’ but that’s not my information at all. The player is reportedly keen and so too are United. This is one that could rumble on a little while longer. However, United will move on if they get a ‘no’ with a centre-half, likely two, key to their mid-season rebuild.”

JC: “Newcastle’s interest in Botman is no secret but any potential transfer could go to the wire. Lille don’t want to sell their title-winning defender. Should their stance chance, United will try and strike.”

Samuel Umtiti - Barcelona

LK: “A player that has been offered around Europe and one that could become a target, but only if primary targets become unattainable. The numbers with this deal are understood to be eye-watering.”

JC: “It’s been suggested that Umtiti has been offered to Newcastle on a loan-to-buy deal. His wages, however, are astronomical for a player bang out of form. The new owners may have money, but also they’re wise. Not a top target.”

Lucas Digne - Everton

LK: “Is a player United admire, but was not understood to be at the top of their list of priorities heading into the window. Some things have changed on that front, most notably Everton’s keenness to get the talented Frenchman out the door. Chelsea are sniffing, too. Would be a top quality addition.”

JC: “Despite the noise surrounding Digne over the last few weeks, the Frenchman doesn’t seem too keen on the move to United at this very moment. There’s no doubt he’d be a great signing, hence why the 28-year-old is also attracting interest from Chelsea.”

Aaron Ramsey - Juventus

LK: “A significant pay cut is needed if the Wales international wants to return to the Premier League. And while Newcastle are awash with Saudi riches, they will not be mad mugs of. Blank cheques are not a thing, value for money is.”

JC: “Max Allergi, the Juventus manager, has confirmed his intention to let Ramsey leave in January. Although he was brilliant at Arsenal, it’s hard to ignore his injury problems in Italy. As Liam mentioned, the finances would have to be right for this to happen.”

Gabriel Barbosa - Flamengo

LK: “Not a striker understood to be under serious consideration at this point in the window.”

JC: “His goalscoring record in Brazil would fill a lot of supporters with excitement. Take a look at how he’s fared in Europe however and it’s a different story.”