Newcastle United

Newcastle United: Magpies plotting transfer swoop for Ligue 1 duo

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Newcastle United reportedly have their eyes on securing a double transfer swoop for two Ligue 1 players. 

The Tyneside club have shown in their previous transfer windows just how capable they are of spending money and bringing new players to St. James’ Park.

With Eddie Howe now in the midst of his second January window in charge of the Magpies, the Newcastle boss has apparently set his sights on two players currently making names for themselves in France.

According to a recent report from French media outlet Jeunes Footeux, Newcastle have their eyes on RC Lens defender Kevin Danso and Stade Rennes midfielder Desire Doue.

The report also adds that Danso could cost up to €40m (£35m) to sign, whereas only a significant transfer fee could tempt Rennes into selling Doue.

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Having played every minute of league action for Lens so far this season, Danso has made more clearances (62) and won more aerial duels (43) than any other player at the club, showcasing his defensive dominance in the air.

Then with Doue, the 17-year-old has found the net three times in 16 appearances for Rennes across Ligue 1 and the Europa League.

With two league goals scored from nine shots at goal, the teenager has the highest rate of goals per shot at the club (0.22).

He also has the joint-third highest number of tackles won in the midfield third of the pitch (11), showing that he isn’t afraid to put the work in off the ball.

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This makes it easy to see why it would only take a hefty transfer fee to prise the youngster away from his current club.

In our view, while Danso certainly has what it takes to be an immediate first-team figure for Newcastle, Doue would be more of a long-term investment for the club to make.

With just over three weeks left until the January transfer window closes, we feel that if Howe thinks adding some defensive reinforcements to his squad is necessary, they should definitely explore the possibility of securing a deal for the Lens defender and leave Doue until a later date.

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