Sevilla are lining up a surprise move for Newcastle United defender Florian Lejeune this summer. According to recent reports, the Magpies centre-back is Sevilla manager Pablo Machin’s number 1 defensive target for this summer transfer window.
It is believed that the Spanish side is on the lookout for some much-needed quality in this off-season and Lejeune fits the bill perfectly. However, some sources are also claiming that Newcastle boss Rafael Benitez has no intention of selling the French centre-back in the coming months. The 27-year-old remains a key member of the Magpies squad and it is expected that the Tynesiders will do everything in their power to keep hold of his services beyond this summer.
Recent reports have also suggested that the French defender is happy with his life at Tyneside and so it would be difficult for Sevilla to seal a move for him in this post-season. The 27-year-old has made 24 appearances for the Premier League side last season and has two assists to his name in all competitions.
Lejeune signed for Newcastle in the summer of 2017 from SD Eibar but has flattered to deceive so far during his time at St. James’ Park. Hence, a move out of Tyneside might help him reignite his career and help him take his game to the next level.
The Magpies were only able to clinch a 10th placed finish in the English top-flight last term so Benitez will be hoping to push for a European place in the upcoming campaign. Retaining some of their top talents could go a long way in helping them improve on their position in the league table next season.
Keeping hold of Lejeune will definitely add to their squad depth ahead of the new campaign as he has the ability to cement his place in Benitez’s first-team for the coming years. At 27, the Frenchman still has his peak years ahead of him which the Tyneside club could look to utilise in the near future.
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His current contract at St. James’ Park is set to run out in the summer of 2022 so Newcastle will be under no pressure to sell their prized asset in this window. It remains to be seen what lies ahead in the future of Lejeune and whether he ends up plying his trade at a different club next season.
