Newcastle United

Newcastle United

Premier League • England

Newcastle earmark £30m for eye-catching midfield transfer, as Bundesliga club reach swift decision

Borussia Monchengladbach midfielder Manu Kone

Newcastle have let Borussia Monchengladbach know they’re prepared to spend almost £30m to sign Manu Kone, and it’s not taken long to get a response, per a report.

The Magpies are one of seven teams to have played three matches and remain undefeated this season. Liverpool also haven’t tasted defeat, though at the time of writing they’ve only played twice.

The feel good factor is back at St. James’ Park and was never more evident than in their pulsating 3-3 draw with Man City on Sunday.

Newcastle were made to settle for a 3-3 draw despite taking a two-goal advantage, though the mere fact they held the champions to a point speaks to how quickly Howe’s side are developing.

Key to their surge has been their incredibly wise and measured recruitment. When the Saudis took over, the expectation was transfer records would be smashed on the regular. However, a far more sensible approach has been taken.

Nick Pope has been the early stand-out of those signed this summer. Defenders Sven Botman and Matt Targett also arrived, though according to French outlet L’Equipe, a midfield addition is on the agenda.

They state Newcastle have made Borussia Monchengladbach aware they’re willing to spend €35m (£29.6m) on French midfielder, Kouadio Kone.

Manu Kone highly rated across Europe – report

The 21-year-old, who is better knows as Manu Kone, operates primarily as a holding midfielder.

He can also operate in a box-to-box role, something that has caught the eye of Newcastle who deploy an all-action midfield three.

Kone started 26 times from his 27 Bundesliga appearances last term and is reportedly regarded highly by many sporting directors across Europe.

L’Equipe state he is known for his technical abilities, especially while under pressure, and his willingness to bomb forward.

Newcastle have let Monchengladbach know of their interest, though per the report, it has been met with a swift rejection.

It’s claimed they did not take long to give Newcastle the news and suggest even a higher bid of around £38m will meet the same fate.

Monchengladbach are aiming high this season and as such, have no desire to sell such a key cog in their machine. In this regard at least, it’s bad news for Newcastle.