Newcastle transfer news: Months of scouting set to lead to offer for Ligue 1 striker with £16.9m asking price

Newcastle United have been monitoring Rennes striker Gaetan Laborde for several months and now, according to reports, they are ready to take matters further by launching a bid for the player.

Magpies boss Eddie Howe has been in the market for a new forward all summer, with a host of names linked with moves to St James’ Park before the window shuts on September 1.

One of those mentioned is Benfica star Goncalo Ramos, with reports suggesting a Newcastle bid is incoming for the player who the Portuguese outfit rate at £33.8m.

However, Laborde also remains in the running for a switch to Tyneside.

Foot Mercato claims that Rennes are willing to sell the 28-year-ola after the arrival of Arnaud Kalimuendo.

But Newcastle are not the only club in the running to sign Laborde, with Lille and Sevilla are keen.

Laborde is perhaps not the prolific frontman that Howe wants on board, but certainly has impressive attributes to his game.

He only averages less than a goal every three games across all competitions. However, Laborde has reached double figures in three different Ligue 1 campaigns, including last year, where he scored 15 times.

The forward has also contributed 30 assists in almost 200 Ligue 1 games during his career.

Laborde also has a relatively low asking price for his experience. Foot Mercato adds that figure could be around £16.9million, which is not a massive risk for St James’ bosses.

Newcastle have also had recent success buying players from France and Laborde could end up being the latest.

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