Newcastle United have joined Red Bull Salzburg in the race to sign Saint-Etienne defender Mickael Nade, according to France Football magazine.
The French publication report that the centre back’s contract runs out in the summer, and the Magpies and Salzburg are both looking to snap up the 18 year old.
Nade has yet to play for Saint-Etienne’s first team after playing 15 times for the club’s youth teams, ten at Under 19 level, and five at reserve level in CFA 2.
He has been compared to Chelsea defender Kurt Zouma who also came through the ranks at Saint-Etienne. He made a £12million move to the Premier League after playing for the French club’s first team.
In contrast, Nade would be available on a free transfer, and France Football say that Newcastle and Salzburg have both made firm approaches for the player. The defender could join up with the Magpies for the start of next season.
