Fabrizio Romano has claimed there is ‘no way’ Lucas Digne will leave Everton for Newcastle United this month.
The French defender was first linked with the Magpies in December, following claims he would leave Goodison Park during the January transfer window.
That speculation increased further on Tuesday evening, with the Telegraph stating Digne was one of Newcastle’s next targets following the Kieran Trippier breakthrough. It was even claimed that a loan move for the 28-year-old was being discussed, while Sky Sports stated that Everton want at least £30million.
However, Romano has poured cold water over the rumours that Digne could be on his way to St James’ Park.
He wrote on Twitter: “Lucas Digne will decide his next club soon. He’ll leave Everton with Premier League move likely – but he’s not going to Newcastle despite rumours. Not even an option. No way.”
Lucas Digne claim is a blow for Newcastle
If what Romano has said is true, it’s a big disappointment. Like Trippier, Digne would have been a sensational signing.
We’ve had issues at left-back, and Digne would have been an upgrade on our current options. And with his sublime crossing ability, we would have added a totally new dimension to our attack with him on the left and Trippier on the right.
But Romano believes there is ‘no way’ that a deal will happen. Why that is remains to be seen.
It’s a certainly a blow, but not the end of the world. While Newcastle want to sign a left-back this month, it’s not the priority. Our priority should be signing at least one centre-back.
As we said, we do have issues at left-back. Paul Dummett has struggled for fitness in recent years, while Jamal Lewis is currently having his own problems after finally finding some form. But before his comeback, his £15million move from Norwich was looking like a disaster.
Then you’ve got Matt Ritchie, who simply isn’t a defender – despite his wonderful attitude.
But we do at least have options on the left. Dummett is back in training, and Lewis is hopefully close to a return as well. He was just starting to find his feet before he picked up a muscle injury versus Liverpool.
Of course, this might not be the end of the Digne saga. But if Romano is correct then Newcastle will need to look elsewhere for a left-back.
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