Newcastle United are tracking Reims striker Remi Oudin ahead of a potential move for the 22-year-old this summer, according to a report from The Sun.
The newspaper report that Newcastle are locked in talks with Ligue 1 side Reims over a deal for Oudin, but the Magpies are believed to have yet to table an offer for the striker, who has scored ten goals in the French top flight this season.
It is thought that Newcastle will face competition from fellow Premier League side Watford, who have reportedly already had a bid of £7million rejected for the Frenchman, as well as Nice and Fiorentina, with Reims thought to be looking for at least £10million for Oudin.
Oudin graduated from Reims’ academy but it is believed that he would be keen on a move to the Premier League, and the French club are hoping to start a bidding war over his future with the club.
Good move for Newcastle?
Oudin is fresh from an impressive season with Reims after scoring ten goals and registering three assists in 31 Ligue 1 appearances this term, as the French club secured a ninth place finish.
The 22-year-old has been labelled as the ‘next Robin van Persie’, and the 6ft 1ins striker’s physical presence and technical ability could make him an ideal player to lead the line for Newcastle in the Premier League, especially if the Magpies miss out on a permanent move for Salomon Rondon.
Newcastle will be needing to add to their forward options this summer, and Oudin is the type of player at the age of 22 who the Magpies could look to develop and potentially sell on for a profit if he performs well in the Premier League
Reims believed valuation of around 10million could make the Frenchman a very cost effective but for Newcastle, with Rafa Benitez, if he remains in charge, wanting to invest in his squad to take the club to the next level.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
As with Benitez’s future Newcastle’s transfer plans are up in the air ahead of the summer, with Mike Ashley not usually quick to release funds for his manager to strengthen their squad.
Newcastle will face strong competition for Oudin, with Watford having already had an offer rejected, and the Magpies are unlikely to be wanting to get involved in a bidding war for the 22-year-old.
However, if Newcastle are to persuade Benitez to stay they will have to give the Spaniard more freedom in the transfer market, which could open the door for Oudin to move to the club.
This is Futbol rating 5/10