Newcastle are in the hunt for Paris Saint-Germain goalkeeper Alphonse Areola, according to France Football.
The French football magazine has claimed that the Magpies are monitoring the 24-year-old and are big admirers of him.
It is understood that Italian heavyweights Juventus are also keen on the shot stopper and are keeping tabs.
The report details that PSG want to extend Areola’s contract which is set to expire in 2019, but an initial offer was turned down by the goalkeeper who is the lowest paid player at the club.
Areola has become the number one in option this season for the Ligue 1 side and kept two clean sheets in his Champions League appearances this season, which included a brilliant display in a win over Bayern Munich.
Good move for Newcastle?
It would be a stunning deal if Newcastle managed to snap up Areola and bring him to St James’ Park.
The Frenchman has managed to force his way into the starting XI at PSG this season and the 24-year-old is developing into a top goalkeeper.
Rafael Benitez has been rewarded by showing faith in Rob Elliot in the Magpies goal this as he has put in some top Premier League performances.
However, Areola is a class above and it would be an incredible deal if the North East club managed to prize him away from PSG.
This Is Futbol rating: 9/10
Likely to happen?
It appears almost impossible that Newcastle would ever get anywhere near Areola’s signature as he is becoming a top goalkeeper.
The 6ft 5in colossus has nailed down the number one spot and the most likely outcome is that PSG wrap up a new deal on high-end wages.
However, even if he is to leave the French club in the future he would have a number of top sides chasing his signature.
This Is Futbol rating: 2/10