Newcastle United need to win the race for Mario Lemina this summer.
The midfielder first got linked with the Magpies back in April.
Fresh reports have surfaced this week about Newcastle wanting to bring the Gabon international in from Southampton.
The Daily Mail reiterate Newcastle interest, claiming the club are keeping tabs on the star.
Without doubt, Newcastle’s midfield needs some attention.
Right now, Bruce’s options are Isaac Hayden, Jonjo Shelvey, Jeff Hendrick and the Longstaff brothers.
The hope is that Joe Willock will come back from Arsenal, but a deal could ultimately prove too expensive.
Funds are said to be tight, but Lemina is reportedly valued at £7 million.
If that is true, then Newcastle really shouldn’t be overthinking it – it’s a bargain.
He may have featured for a side that ended up being relegated last term, but Lemina did catch the eye at times with his technical quality.
There wasn’t much of a goal threat – he only got one goal – but that isn’t really his game.
He is someone who can take the ball and it through the lines.
Currently, Newcastle don’t really have such a player capable of doing that from the deeper positions.
£7 million would be a bargain
Newcastle have the chance to make a really shrewd signing here.
£7 million for a 27-year-old who has made 74 Premier League appearances surely has to be worth some consideration.
West Ham are also thought to be keen (Guardian), so Newcastle may well have some competition.
Arguably, he is better than all the current options at Steve Bruce’s disposal – and moves for him and Willock would seriously change the outlook.
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