Sevilla have made Newcastle United defender Florian Lejeune their number one summer target as the La Liga side prepare a bid for the 27-year-old, according to the Chronicle.
The regional newspaper report that the Magpies have no intention of selling Lejeune, with Rafa Benitez rating the enforcer very highly, believing he can go on to dominate in the Premier League in the next few seasons.
The Chronicle claim that Sevilla are likely to bid around £13million for Lejeune, with Newcastle not even contemplating a sale around that figure having bought him for £8.8million last summer.
It is said that uncertainty over the long-term future of boss Benitez means Sevilla believe they can snap up Lejeune in the coming weeks, with an approach or bid expected by the end of June.
Good move for Newcastle United?
No.
Losing Lejeune this summer would be a disaster for Newcastle, with the French centre-back becoming such a crucial part of their defence this season.
An uncertain start to his Magpies career was following by injury problem, but Lejeune recovered so well to make himself a fixture alongside Jamaal Lascelles at the back for the Toon.
The only situation in which the club should sell is if an astronomical offer is submitted, which is looking unlikely considering Sevilla have set aside just £13million for the bid.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 1/10
Likely to happen?
Luckily, no.
Benitez rates Lejeune very highly, and has spoken publicly of his admiration for the defender.
There is little chance of the club deciding to sell up this summer, unless as stated there is an offer that they simply cannot refuse.
In terms of Lejeune himself, there is no indication that he will push for a move away from St. James’ Park this summer either.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 1/10
