‘Serious’ Newcastle prepare huge offer for electric Arsenal target who’ll displace failed signing

Newcastle are ‘getting serious’ and ‘will make an offer’ for a France international who would displace a player who’s ‘turning out to be a flop’, per a report. 

Barring a late-season collapse, the Magpies will grace the Champions League next year for the first time since 2003. Newcastle turning the ‘big six’ into a ‘big seven’ was always inevitable once taken over by their Saudi Arabian owners. However, few would’ve predicted they’d crash the party quite so soon.

To ensure Eddie Howe’s side are capable of challenging on multiple fronts moving forward, a big summer window is expected.

Greater strength in depth is a must, as is improving the strongest eleven Howe can field.

To that end, German outlet BILD declare Newcastle will go back in for January transfer target, Moussa Diaby.

Newcastle made enquiries into signing the Frenchman in the winter window, though Bayer Leverkusen were unreceptive to a mid-season sale.

Via Sport Witness, it’s claimed the electric winger, 23, is also being courted by Arsenal and PSG. However, it’s Newcastle who look certain to act on their interest.

The Telegraph recently reported Arsenal and Newcastle hold confirmed interest in the France winger. BILD take it a step further, claiming the Magpies are firming up their plans.

Newcastle aiming high; ‘at least’ £52m required

They’re stated to be ‘getting serious’ about the move that is likely to require an offer of ‘at least €60m’ (approx. £52m).

Whether Newcastle will match Leverkusen’s asking price isn’t stated, though what is clear is they will launch a bid.

Indeed, BILD add Newcastle ‘will make an offer’ for the player who has notched 14 goals and 11 assists across all competitions for Leverkusen this term.

The 23-year-old is capable of operating on either flank and if signed, it’s claimed he could shove January recruit, Anthony Gordon, even further down the pecking order.

Gordon was a £45m signing from Everton in January, though BILD declare he’s ‘turning out to be a flop’ in lieu of his minimal impact thus far.

Gordon is yet to register a single goal or assist in Newcastle colours and has not played more than 62 minutes in any league match since joining.

While there’s no suggestion Newcastle are ready to give up on Gordon and sanction a sale just yet, it is suggested Diaby slot straight in at the top of the pecking order.

In that scenario, Gordon would face an even greater struggle to reignite his stalling career at St. James’ Park.

READ MORE: Newcastle ‘pushing’ to sign Europe-leading Serie A star, with Eddie Howe’s only weak link to be solved