According to Sky Sports journalist, Keith Downie, Newcastle United have been in talks with FC Strasbourg regarding a potential deal for Ibrahima Sissoko. It is believed that the Magpies are ready to fork out £10.5m for the services of the midfielder. But, the report further claims that the chances of the deal potentially happening are unlikely.
Why are Newcastle interested in Sissoko?
A product of the Stade Brest youth academy, Sissoko moved to Strasbourg in 2018. He was part of the summer reinforcements after the club had somehow survived the wrath of relegation the season before.
Either way, Sissoko quickly became a vital component of the Strasbourg midfield. In fact, he made as many as 32 league appearances in his debut campaign in Ligue 1. He was involved in five goals as well – contributions that helped Strasbourg achieve an improved 11th placed finish in the league last season.
Although the club has continued to flirt with the relegation zone in this new season, Sissoko has been one of their key figures, having already made nine appearances so far.
What can he bring to the table?
A holding midfielder by trade, Sissoko has impressed the onlookers with his ability to provide security to the backline. Indeed, the Frenchman is known for his excellent man-marking, and his imposing 1.93m figure makes him a rock in midfield. It also hands him a considerable advantage in terms of aerial duels.
Although Sissoko’s is not an excellent passer of the ball, he more than makes up for it with his defensive work-rate. The 22-year-old is also a sensible midfielder, who does not unnecessarily dive into tackles – making him a well rounded CDM.
Should Newcastle United make an improved bid for Sissoko?
With a deal unlikely at the moment, Newcastle United should try to increase their offer in an attempt to sign Sissoko. The Magpies are desperate for reinforcements in the midfield department given the struggles of Jonjo Shelvey and Ki Sung-Yeung.
Sissoko, in that regard, could be an ideal player for Steve Bruce. The Frenchman can be deployed at the base of the Newcastle midfield, alongside the likes of Isaac Hayden and Sean Longstaff. It will certainly revamp the quality of the squad and offer more solidity to the backline as the Tyneside outfit look to get out of the relegation scrap during the second half of the campaign.
