Newcastle United are still waiting in the wings to make their first signing for the next season, which is going to be their first comeback season in top flight football after spending the last term in the Championship. The Magpies have been exploring a world of options and are currently looking for a top class defender whom they can bring in to marshal their backline for the next season and help in keeping their opponents at bay.
Among a long list of players who have been eyed by the club for the next season, the name right on the top is that of the French defender Kevin Malcuit, who has been playing presently in the French Ligue 1 for the outfit Saint Etienne. He has been one of the centre backs to watch out for in the last term, attracting a number of clubs towards him from all around Europe including some from the Premier League as well.
The 25-year-old is well aware of his high demand and is open for a move away from the French Ligue 1 in the next season, especially to the Premier League. However, there have also been interests flowing in from Ligue 1 clubs like Lille, who already had a bid of £6 million rejected by Saint Etienne that has been deemed unsatisfactory by the outfit.
Reportedly, West Ham United also have a grave interest in bagging the defender for the next season and are monitoring the development of the situation regarding the player. However, Newcastle are considered to be the frontrunner for submitting a bid for the talented youngster in the summer.
As per sources, his current club, Saint Etienne, has been facing some financial problems and are looking to let go of their prized possession for at least £8 million in order to get the necessary funds to be invested in bringing in players who they are targeting to be a part of their squad for the next season.
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez is well aware of the fact that he has to build a team of players who will be able to take on the likes of Manchester United, Manchester City, Arsenal, Tottenham, Liverpool and defending champions Chelsea and it will be an uphill task for them to make a mark in the increasingly competitive Premier League. The Spanish mastermind is looking to revamp the team with a number of new players for the next season and the French youngster is consisting of a significant part of his plans.
