Newcastle United were once again scouting for top European talent last week ahead of what promises to be a very important summer transfer window.
January was a frustrating window, but with our PSR position much improved after a few winter outgoings, Newcastle are almost certain to invest in a new right-winger.
With money to spend and Paul Mitchell finally getting a chance to prove himself in the transfer market, a familiar name he has previous experience with has been linked with a potential move to Tyneside once again.
Newcastle scout sent to watch Ligue 1 star?
Newcastle had a scout in attendance during the Champions League play-off tie between Benfica and Monaco last week, with a certain Frenchman the player in focus.
According to TBR, Paul Mitchell sent a club official to investigate Maghnes Akliouche, who assisted in a 3-3 tie with the Portuguese, which saw them just miss out on a place in the round of 16.
The 22-year-old winger is having an excellent season with the Ligue 1 club. He has 12 goals in all competitions, four of them came in ten Champions League games.
Mitchell, who previously worked at Monaco before joining Tyneside, is thought to be a big fan, with Tyneside scouts already keeping an eye on the winger prior to his arrival.
This season, the Frenchman has pushed his way into the first squad, starting 26 games in both Ligue 1 and Europe, and his ability to play on both sides and as a ten will have piqued the interest of many.
Akilouche attracting a lot of curiosity.
According to the same report, the winger’s performances have not gone unnoticed, with Manchester City and PSG also showing an interest in Akilouche.
Competition is unavoidable for an intriguing young talent impressing in one of Europe’s top five leagues, but a move for the Monaco star may signal a movement away from Premier League premiums – Mbeumo, Semenyo, and Dibling have all been connected – and toward an abroad prodigy with plenty of potential.
Akilouche is quick with the ball at his feet and likes to cut in with his stronger left foot, making him an ideal right-sided attacker to round out Eddie Howe’s attacking line.
The Monaco star would most likely not be cheap, but with our enhanced summer budget, we should have plenty of room to spend, particularly in our weakest region of the pitch.
