Newcastle United are still interested in a move for Marseille striker Bamba Dieng, with the Senegalese forward having “big potential” and “a high ceiling.”
That is according to Dean Jones, who was speaking to This is Futbol about the Magpies’ potential transfer business this summer, heading into the final few weeks of the window.
According to Foot Mercato, none of Newcastle, Benfica, Fulham, or Everton have been able to match Marseille’s demand of £12.6m for Dieng as of yet this summer.
However, according to the Express, Eddie Howe’s side could still yet make a move for the 22-year-old, who has been described as a “serious talent” by Graeme Bailey, and a bid towards the end of the window can’t be ruled out.
And Jones believes that Newcastle are still interested in bringing Dieng to St. James’ Park, but they are going to have to compete with a number of different clubs for his signature.
“He’s got big potential, a high ceiling.
“So, Newcastle are interested in Dieng still, but yeah, they have discovered that it’s going to take a lot of beating to get him.”
TIF Thoughts on Jones’ comments
We believe that with Newcastle having just Callum Wilson and Chris Wood as their options to play in that centre-forward spot, that the club could do with adding another body in that front line.
Over the last 365 days, Dieng rates in the top 2% of strikers across Europe’s top five leagues and European competition for total shots per 90 minutes (3.62), and 1% for non-penalty expected goals per 90 (0.71) according to FBref, suggesting that last season’s eight goal striker would be a handy addition for Howe’s front line.
Therefore, we think at a value of £12.6m, the 11-time Senegal international would represent a smart piece of business for the Magpies, and could turn out to be a very astute signing, if he fulfils his aforementioned potential.