Newcastle United should not face any difficulties in their bid to sign Strasbourg midfielder Ibrahima Sissoko in the January transfer window, according to Sun journalist Alan Nixon.
Nixon reported via the Sun’s website last month that Newcastle were close to agreeing a deal worth a potential £13million for Sissoko, 22, as Steve Bruce aims to bolster his midfield options in the New Year.
The reporter now claims via his personal Twitter account that the situation remains largely unchanged but despite the hold-up, Newcastle are unlikely to face any hurdles on their way to sealing the deal.
Just down to the fee. Shouldn’t be a problem. https://t.co/hnDAAhHfgI
— Alan Nixon (@reluctantnicko) November 24, 2019
OPINION
Sissoko is a good young player who can play in several different midfield positions. At Strasbourg this season, the France Under-21 international has made 12 appearances in Ligue 1 where he has been used as a defensive and central midfielder while also playing on both the left and right wings at certain points. Sissoko is definitely at his best when playing in the defensive midfield role and if he manages to develop into the player that he is expected to be, he could be a good signing for Newcastle. However, does Bruce really need a new defensive midfielder in January? Isaac Hayden and both of the Longstaff brothers can play in deeper-lying midfield roles. If anything, Newcastle need a creative midfielder or a number 10 who can play in behind Joelinton up top. Mike Ashley is unlikely to free up a lot of funds for January so Bruce needs to be shrewd with his spending. Don’t sign Sissoko unless you absolutely have to.