Newcastle United have received a "green light" to sign Monaco attacker Maghnes Akliouche after PIF sent officials to watch the AS Monaco star in action.
Monaco star on Newcastle's radar
Amid rumours that PIF are actively pulling their funding from the likes of LIV Golf, Newcastle should be keen to get their act together sooner rather than later.
The Magpies have not spent PIF's money well in the last 12 months and simply cannot afford to make the same mistake this summer amid increased PSR difficulties and Anthony Gordon's potential exit.
Losing the winger would be a major blow just one year after Alexander Isak's exit left a gaping hole in Newcastle's frontline, which Nick Woltemade has since failed to fill.
It would only increase the pressure on Ross Wilson in his first summer as sporting director at St James' Park, but many will be quick to suggest that he can't do worse than Newcastle managed last year.
Newcastle 25/26 Goals Assists Transfer Fee
Nick Woltemade 10 5 £69m
Yoane Wissa 3 1 £55m
Anthony Elanga 3 2 £55m
With 16 goals between them this season, to say that Newcastle's three attacking signings have disappointed would be an understatement. It's sent the Magpies back to square one and on the hunt for much-needed upgrades this summer.
According to Sports Boom, Newcastle have received the "green light" to sign Akliouche from AS Monaco after PIF sent specialised scouts to watch the attacking star.
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Eddie Howe's position at Newcastle is becoming increasingly untenable ahead of an inevitable end-of-season review.
The Ligue 1 club reportedly value their winger at a hefty €65m (£57m) and would sell to one of Manchester United, Newcastle or Liverpool if an offer arrives this summer.
Akliouche would be instant upgrade on Elanga
After splashing the cash to sign Elanga last summer, it looked as though Newcastle had welcomed a deadly partner for Woltemade within their frontline. But almost 12 months later, neither have worked out to the point that those at St James' Park are now eyeing a similar deal to sign Akliouche.
maghnes-akliouche-as-monaco
Where Elanga has failed, the Monaco man could thrive. So far this season, the 24-year-old has scored seven goals and created another eight in all competitions. Compared to Newcastle's current options, he would be an undeniable upgrade for Eddie Howe.
The big question for Newcastle is whether they can afford to splash the cash on Akliouche without selling Gordon this summer.
As much as the latter is keen to explore his options, the Magpies must hold their ground if they want to stand a chance at Champions League football and rebuilding their attack next season.