According to the latest reports from L’Équipe as cited by GFFN, Newcastle United are in a race with Leicester City and Celtic to sign Le Mans’ 20-year-old winger Stéphane Diarra. It is being said that the three British teams are scouting the winger ‘intensely’.
Newcastle United have done relatively well than what was expected from them at the start of the season. Steve Bruce has pretty much carried on from where Rafael Benitez left off, and the players have turned up with some decent performances which have taken them to the 13th spot on the Premier League table.
Diarra meanwhile has made 16 appearances for his side in Ligue 2 this season and has contributed with three goals and two assists. The Ivorian born winger previously played for Rennes, but he never managed to break into their senior side. He impressed for Le Mans on loan initially, and they signed him on a permanent contract this summer.
What can Diarra offer?
The 20-year-old is known for his breathtaking dribbling skills. Diarra is often brave on the ball as he looks to make things happen in the final third, and he is always willing to drive the ball forward. The winger has attempted the third most dribbles in the Ligue Two, and his success rate of completing those dribbles is the best in the division.
However, the youngster is far from a finished product, and he is still learning his trade as he is inexperienced. Nevertheless, some impressive signs are there that he can thrive in the top flight football in the future.
Does Newcastle United need right-wingers?
Miguel Almiron has so far been playing on the right flank, but he is yet to hit the ground running. The Paraguayan is more comfortable as an attacking midfielder and maybe moving him into central areas can provide rich dividends to the Magpies. Matt Ritchie is someone who can play on the right, but he has been utilised as a wing-back now for quite some time. Therefore the Toon can do with a new right-winger in their roster.
Should Bruce go for him?
Newcastle United need to be patient with Diarra for the time being as he is still learning his trade. Even though the Magpies need a right-winger, they should continue to monitor the Frenchman further. Maybe the Toon can consider a summer move if Diarra continues to impress in the Ligue 2. If they want someone to make an impact straight away in January, then they should look for other proven options.
