The contract saga surrounding Mo Diame continues to rumble on.
The midfielder’s current deal ends in the summer, and he wants to sign a two-year extension with the Magpies according to the Daily Mail.
However, considering he’s 31-years-old, his age goes against him. While he is an important player for Rafa Benitez, handing out lengthy contracts to players in their 30s isn’t something Mike Ashley is known for.
But if Diame is desperate to stay in the Premier League, he might have options elsewhere.
Diame could be a wanted man
According to the Daily Star, teams in Turkey, Spain and Italy are taking an interest in snapping up the big man on a free. But interestingly, the report states that Crystal Palace and Brighton are also keeping an eye on the situation.
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The fact that Premier League clubs are keeping an eye on Diame should tell Newcastle all they need to know.
It’s obvious that he can still do a job in the top flight. And if Newcastle aren’t going to let him do it at St James’ Park, he’ll be able to get a move elsewhere.
While he is entering the twilight of his career, he’s still got so much energy in the tank. He often sets the tempo for Newcastle, and is a master at winning the ball back.
He might not be a guaranteed starter over the next couple of years, but he’s a great option to have in your squad.
Newcastle have a lot of issues to sort out this summer, the biggest being Benitez’s future. And tying Diame down to a new deal will certainly help keep the manager at the club.
If Diame does leave, he could could come back to haunt us.