Newcastle United are expected to firm up their interest in Young Boys striker Yannick Toure in the next 24 hours with opening talks, according to the Daily Mail.
The newspaper claims that the Magpies have been interested in the 17-year-old since November, who currently plays in the Under-21s side of Swiss club Young Boys.
It is understood that the Premier League team will hold imminent talks over a January move for him and a compensation fee would be set by FIFA as he is yet to sign a new contract with his current club.
The report details that Arsenal, Juventus and Red Bull Salzburg have all been monitoring the centre-forward recently, but it’s Newcastle who have blinked first as they prepare for first contact.
Good move for Newcastle?
Toure is certainly a highly-rated talent in Swiss football that is receiving a lot of attention and could be one for the future at St James’ Park.
If they can win the race for his signature it could represent a good deal, but unfortunately Newcastle fans are desperate for some big name arrivals during the January window.
Rafael Benitez does need to bolster his frontline with proven top-flight goalscorers as his current options have struggled in front of goal.
Toure has impressed in the Under-21s side this campaign with six goals in just seven appearances, but it’s unlikely he could make an immediate impact on the Newcastle first team.
This Is Futbol rating: 6/10
Likely to happen?
Newcastle appear to have stolen a march on their rivals in the pursuit of Toure, whose transfer fee would be decided by FIFA.
They appear to have stepped up their initial interest in the striker and with talks planned in the next 24 hours it suggests they are keen to wrap up a deal quickly.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10