Newcastle United have held talks with Lyon defender Mouctar Diakhaby but are set to miss out to La Liga side Valencia, according to France Football.
The French site report that Newcastle were in contact with the Champions League club over a deal for the young centre-back, who made 21 appearances in all competitions last season.
France Football claim that Everton were also in the hunt, but the enforcer preferred a move to Spain and a £13million deal is about to be agreed.
Lyon have qualified for the Champions League play-off round of qualifying after finishing third in Ligue 1 in 2017/18.
Good move for Newcastle United?
Yes.
Diakhaby looks like he could be a star of the future after his breakthrough season at Lyon, with the 6ft 2in centre-back [Transfermarkt] proving to be a useful player for the Ligue 1 club.
The interest from big clubs such as Valencia and Everton prove that Diakhaby caught the eye with his displays in 2017/18, and the 21-year-old could end up going on to big things.
A deal at £13million looks to be a bargain as well considering his young age and potential, and Newcastle were on the right track with their interest.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
Unfortunately not.
The deal to take Diakhaby to Valencia looks to be all but done, with personal terms agreed along with the £13million fee.
A sell-on clause has reportedly been included in the deal, with the 21-year-old set to sign a five-year contract with the La Liga club.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 0/10
