Newcastle United are currently being priced out of a potential deal for Amiens defender Emil Krafth, according to journalist Alan Nixon.
The Sun journalist revealed that the asking price is currently too high for the Magpies to sanction a deal for the 24-year-old right-back, who only joined the Ligue 1 club permanently in this transfer window.
Nixon reported on his personal Twitter account on Tuesday afternoon, that despite the fact Krafth wants to complete a move to St James’ Park, Amiens are not “playing ball.”
Newcastle. Amiens not playing ball with a fee for the Swede right back. Lad wants to come. But fee too high for now.
— Alan Nixon (@reluctantnicko) July 30, 2019
Newcastle were first reported by the Sun to be holding an interest in the 20-cap Swedish international on Saturday and were plotting a £1million move despite the fact Amiens paid a reported £2million at the beginning of July.
OPINION
This comes as no real surprise, I mean, did Newcastle really think they could get away with this deal? Amiens are right to be holding out for more, after all, they did pay double the £1million the Magpies are hoping to pay – a cheeky negotiation, even in Mike Ashley’s world. The one positive that could come from this somewhat negative update, is the fact that Krafth himself seems keen on making the move to the Premier League and St James’ Park in particular. The 24-year-old could force a move if it gets that far, and that is the best thing Newcastle could probably hope for right now. Krafth can play anywhere on the right-hand side, primarily in defence, and would bring great versatility to Steve Bruce’s side. The defender averaged 1.6 tackles and 2.3 clearances – proving his primary strength being in defence [Source: WhoScored]. A deal for Krafth would be a smart move by Newcastle, but they must stop playing with fire in poor negotiations or face the consequence that they could miss out on their targets.
