Newcastle United

Newcastle United

Premier League • England

Newcastle preparing Ligue 1 raid with Moses Simon first step of double Nantes swoop

Moses Simon dribbling for Nantes

Newcastle are reportedly looking to perform a double swoop for Nantes duo Moses Simon and Ludovic Blas in the upcoming summer transfer window.

Newcastle are looking to acquire the services of Simon and Blas this summer as part of their club’s continuing rebuild. The pair have been regularly involved in Nantes’ attacking setup, contributing to 30 goals in Ligue 1 between them.

The Magpies’ striking department is in need of bolstering this summer with many players set to leave the club.

In January, Eddie Howe’s team signed Chris Wood to help with their striking options as Callum Wilson endured yet another injury-riddled season.

A report from French outlet BUT has stated that Newcastle are now interested in acquiring the services of the Nantes pair this summer.

It is reported that Newcastle have even gone as far as sending scouts to watch them in action. The report also claims that Blas had been recommended directly from Newcastle star Allan Saint-Maximin as a player he’d like to see the club try and sign.

Simon is likely to be a harder target for the Magpies to acquire, however. ‘Concrete interest’ has been expressed by other clubs, including those in the top flight of France.

The report also confirms that the pair are more than likely going to leave Nantes this summer.

How good are Moses Simon and Ludovic Blas?

Simon is just 26 years old and still has room to develop as a player. The winger has contributed to 14 goals so far in Ligue 1. These comprise of six goals and eight assists.

He is also a regular for the Nigeria national team and appeared throughout their Africa Cup of Nations campaign.

The 2021/22 season has been the winger’s most prolific of his career. He finally looks to be living up to the promise he showcased earlier in his career.

Blas, on the other hand, is more of an attacking midfielder but still boasts an incredible output.

The 24-year-old has contributed to two more goals than the aforementioned Simon in Ligue 1 this season, garnering a total of 16 contributions thus far.

He would be able to provide Newcastle with the creative talent their midfield seemingly requires. The France Under-21 international would also benefit both Joelinton’s and Bruno Guimaraes’ play styles effectively.

If the pair were to make the move to Tyneside, they would likely be welcome additions to Howe’s camp.

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