La Liga side Sevilla are expected to table a bid for Newcastle United defender Florian Lejeune this month with doubts over Rafael Benitez’s future handing them hope, according to the Chronicle.
The north east England newspaper report that the 27-year-old powerhouse, who arrived at St James’ Park from Eibar last summer, is the Spanish side’s top target during the current transfer window and are preparing to offer around £13million for his capture.
It is said that Newcastle, who spent £8.8million on his capture, believe his value to have doubled to £17.6million during his time on Tyneside, and that they are reluctant to sell unless a big money offer comes in, with four years left on his contract.
However, with Benitez’s future uncertain, with just a year remaining on his current deal, the report states Sevilla are hopeful Lejeune can be tempted with a move back to Spain.
Good move for Newcastle?
Lejeune may have had a slow start to his career with the Magpies but he grew into his role and became a formidable centre back alongside Jamaal Lascelles.
The duo complement each other with their respective styles of play and it is no surprise Newcastl ehave no intention of letting him go without receiving a hefty fee for his capture.
Benitez’s future is causing doubt at the club but it should not affect Lejeune’s place in the side, and Sevilla are being optimistic if they think they can prise the Frenchman away for the £13million price reported.
If Newcastle were to let him go, it would be for much, much more.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10
Likely to happen?
Probably not.
Lejeune seems settled on his return back to England, having spent time with Manchester City, and while he might have excelled in Spain, a move back makes little sense.
He is now testing himself against some of the best talents world football has to offer, and even if Sevilla did make a move, he would likely want to stay at St James’ Park.
This is Futbol rating: 2/10