Newcastle United are reportedly in the market for an attacker in January, and are seemingly interested in signing Marcus Thuram.
The Frenchman has emerged as a target for the Magpies over the past week, with his contract winding down at Borussia Monchengladbach. Thuram is on track to become a free agent next summer, and his club are expected to sell him in January to ensure they don’t lose him for nothing.
Newcastle are one of the clubs that have been alerted to Thuram’s situation, and are seemingly considering a move when the transfer window opens.
The 25-year-old would be an exciting addition, and add even more depth to Eddie Howe’s impressive squad. The Toon boss will be keen to sign another attacking option, and Thuram is a player who can operate in different roles.
His ability to play as an out and out striker or off one of the flanks makes him a versatile forward, and his goal record isn’t bad too. Thuram, who is currently at the World Cup with France, is enjoying a sensational season in Germany. He currently has 13 goals in all competitions.
That’s more than any Newcastle player has this season, and it’s 11 more than Toon striker Chris Wood.
Chris Wood could be surplus to requirements if Marcus Thuram signs
The first striker Newcastle’s new owners signed was Chris Wood. He arrived in January for £25million. It was a needs must signing given Callum Wilson’s injury.
And while the New Zealander led the line brilliantly last season, goals weren’t easy to come by. Wood scored twice, netting in wins over Southampton and Wolves.
It hasn’t got much better for Wood this season either. He has played second fiddle to Wilson, whilst also dealing with the added threat of Alexander Isak. However, the Swede has spent most of the season out injured.
Wood has matched his tally from last season, scoring twice so far. But he hasn’t been doing enough to suggest he should be starting.
And if Thuram does arrive, his chances of featuring will be even slimmer.
He was linked with a move away at the end of the summer transfer window, with Newcastle proposing a swap deal with Watford to bring Joao Pedro to St James’ Park.
It was turned down, but clearly showed Wood was disposable. It has also been claimed by the Athletic that Newcastle will look to sign a replacement for him in 2023.
Thuram could be that replacement, and him arriving on Tyneside could be the beginning of the end for Wood in black and white.