Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez faces a crucial test this month as he looks to bolster his side for a relegation battle that lies ahead.
The Magpies have struggled for consistency since their return to the Premier League and Benitez is desperate to improve his ranks significantly in the mid-season window, with the club looking to avoid an immediate return to the Championship.
Whilst the attacking areas of the squad appear to be the weakest, the Magpies are also looking to improve their options defensively and the quest for one player being tracked by Newcastle could heat up following the first move from a Premier League rival.
The Daily Mail states Newcastle’s relegation rivals Crystal Palace have made a move to sign Lille defender Ibrahim Amadou, who is rated at around £16m and presents a versatile option- as he’s able to play centrally in defensive or in a holding midfield role.
Whilst the Eagles have made an approach, it’s unlikely to be the end of the battle as the report states that Newcastle have also been tracking the 24-year-old, along with the likes of Arsenal, Southampton, Stoke City and Watford.
The preference of the French side is said to be an initial loan move, which works in favour of Newcastle due to their restricted funds and ongoing takeover talk.
