Newcastle United have been handed a positive piece of news for their long-term transfer ambitions, with the news that a European side are accepting defeat in their quest to maintain a star’s services.
French outlet L’Equipe have stated in their printed edition this week that St. Etienne have given up in their quest to secure highly-rated Jonathan Bamba to a new contract, with the Newcastle target now poised to complete a free transfer at the end of the season.
Bamba, who has also attracted recent attention from Huddersfield Town, is asking for higher wages than the Ligue 1 side are willing to pay, which is leading towards a departure for the French U21 international.
Due to the rules regarding Bosman transfers, Newcastle can open talks regarding a pre-contractual agreement immediately but the Magpies may wait until their Premier League status is secured before making a move.
The winger, who’s capable of playing across the front-line, has been a bright spark in an otherwise dismal campaign for St. Etienne, scoring six goals in 17 league games.
