The Daily Mail have reported that Newcastle United are tracking Montpellier striker Stephy Mavididi. The 23-year-old was on the books of Arsenal and Juventus, but failed to break into the first team.
After a loan spell at Dijon in the 2019/20 campaign, Mavididi signed for Montpellier. In his first season (2020/21), the Derby-born striker netted 9 times. This season he has 6 goals so far and has been in a good run of form.
Newcastle face Premier League competition in their quest to sign the striker. Both Crystal Palace and Brighton and Hove Albion are interested, according to The Daily Mail, adding that he is valued at £15 million.
Newcastle have family ties that could persuade Mavididi to move to Tyneside
Stephy’s brother, Shaun Mavididi, is currently at the Newcastle academy. The Magpies swooped him up last summer on a two-year scholarship after he was let go by Arsenal. He is now currently in the Toon Army’s U18s side.
Should Stephy decide a move to the Premier League is right, a family reunion with his younger brother would give Newcastle the advantage.
With target man Wood signed, the Magpies are looking at a different type of striker
The Magpies signed New Zealand international Chris Wood for £25 million recently, and it seems that the Magpies are still looking for another striker before the end of the window. Their recent targets include Hugo Ekitike also from Ligue 1, which seems the Toon Army want a different type of striker.
Mavididi’s strongest attribute is his deadly speed, defences across Ligue 1 have really struggled to handle it. Additionally, he is a great dribbler, the combination of speed and skill could offer a different type of option for Newcastle up top.
Interestingly Mavididi has stated previously that he would like to return to the Premier League. When he was at Juventus, he told Football.London of his Premier League ambition.
He stated, “Ultimately my dream is to play in the Premier League, I’m working towards coming back to England. For me, I have many targets. Juventus is one of them but if that doesn’t work out I’ll move on to the next one and the next one.”
Newcastle would have the advantage over Crystal Palace and Brighton if they were to pursue Mavididi. Brother Shaun is currently there and he certainly has aspirations of playing in the Premier League.
He has pace and skill which could bring a new dimension to Newcastle’s attack. However, with other forwards on their radar, the Montpellier striker may miss out on a move to Tyneside.