Nice striker Alassane Plea is keen on a move to Newcastle United to work with Rafa Benitez amid ongoing talks over a permanent transfer, according to the Chronicle.
The regional newspaper report that Newcastle have seen an initial bid rejected for the 25-year-old, but have not given up hope on signing the £27m-rated ace.
The Chronicle claim that Tottenham, Fulham, West Ham and Borussia Monchengladbach are all in the hunt for Plea, but a source in France says the striker is keen on a move to Tyneside to link up with Benitez.
Good move for Newcastle United?
Yes, but only at the right price.
Benitez has been on the search for a striker who he believes can lead the line for the Magpies next season, and the club’s bid for Plea suggests that he has been identified as that man.
21 goals in all competitions last season shows that the 25-year-old has what it takes to score on a regular basis, but the Premier League is a different matter, and the club must ensure that the fee does not get out of hand.
Nice are known to be asking for £27million for Plea, and that would be a steep price for Newcastle to pay.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like Newcastle have put themselves in a good position by submitting a bid for Plea, but the high asking price may see their rivals for his signature swoop in and steal the deal.
Plea’s desire to link up with Benitez is a trump card that the club will be able to play, but it will not be able to prevent other clubs from bidding more for the 25-year-old.
That is ultimately likely to happen, and Newcastle will be in for a battle to secure this one.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 3/10
