Newcastle United transfer latest as Eddie Howe seeks a striker and right winger
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Newcastle United's hunt for a new forward has seen them enquire about Paris St Germain attacker Randal Kolo Muani, according to reports over the weekend.
The Magpies are desperate to add to their attacking ranks this summer, with back-up for Alexander Isak and a right-sided forward on the shopping list.
Newcastle had targeted Liam Delap and Bryan Mbeumo, but have missed out on both players - the former joined Chelsea despite holding talks with United, while the latter looks set to sign for Manchester United after they agreed to his huge wage demands.
Newcastle have switched attention to other targets and continue to be keen on Nottingham Forest right-winger and Brighton forward Joao Pedro. Deals have yet to be struck over either player, however, with Chelsea also keen on Pedro.
The Brazilian offers a versatility to operate across the frontline, which appeals to Newcastle who may not be able to afford a player in both position. While their PSR position is healthy, they also want to add a goalkeeper and centre-half to their squad which will stretch the budget.
Kolo Muani offers the same sort of versatility. Predominantly a central striker, he can also play off either wing.
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Newcastle's interest in the player is understood to just be at an earky stage. They have asked to be kept informed of the 26-year-old's situation, but Chelsea and Man United are also keen on him, with the Stamford Bridge club reportedly opening negotiations with PSG.
Kolo Muani spent the second half of the season on loan at Juventus, a deal that was extended so he could play in the Club World Cup for the Italians. He starred in their opening game against Al Ain, scoring twice to make it six goals in his last eight games for the club.
Juve are understood to be pushing to make the deal permanent, but PSG's asking price could be a stumbling block. The French giants are willing to take a loss on the layer, having paid Eintracht Frankfurt £77million for his services in 2023, but are still reportedly looking for between £50m-£60m.
Kolo Muani, who has 31 caps for France, is believed to have enjoyed his time in Turin and would like to remain. Juve are looking at the possibility of another loan followed by a permanent transfer but Chelsea have made moves to scupper the deal.
TuttoJuve’s Mirko di Natale has reported that while Juve will make contact with PSG at the end of the Club World Cup about signing the player, Newcastle and Man United have asked for information about the France international though it was only an enquiry from the two clubs and there have been no concrete offers.
Newcastle are still looking for a breakthrough in the transfer market. Outgoing sporting director Paul Mitchell has handed over transfer negotiations to Andy Howe and Steve Nickson ahead of his final day on June 30.
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