Newcastle United target Abdukodir Khusanov is ready to play for the best teams in Europe.
Cast your mind back to the summer transfer window and Newcastle United were desperate to sign a centre-back.
Sporting director Paul Mitchell walked away from the Marc Guehi deal late into the window, and Newcastle ended the summer emptyhanded despite submitting multiple bids for the Crystal Palace defender.
Reports have suggested that Newcastle could return for Guehi this month, but the return of Sven Botman against Tottenham has reduced the need to strengthen at the back.
Instead, Newcastle can now afford to look elsewhere and perhaps recruit a cheaper, up-and-coming talent. That is where Lens centre-back Abdukodir Khusanov comes in.
Newcastle United in advanced Abdukodir Khusanov talks
After being quoted a whopping £70m for Guehi in the summer, Newcastle view Khusanov as a cheaper alternative.
The 20-year-old centre-back has been sensational for Lens in Ligue 1 this season and is now attracting interest from across Europe. Newcastle intend to win the race for his signature.
Reports suggest Khusanov is open to joining Newcastle in 2025 as he looks to make the next step in his career, and he is valued at just £20m.
Newcastle’s talks for Khusanov are advanced with reports suggesting a move is close. However, there is also interest from top-flight rivals.
Manchester City could hijack the Khusanov deal but transfer expert Graeme Bailey previously told Geordie Boot Boys that it will come down to which club can persuade him of their project.
What Abdukodir Khusanov has said amid Newcastle interest
Khusanov’s agent has opened up about a potential move for the young defender, and it seems a January exit is certainly on the cards.
As quoted by The Mirror, his representative Gairat Khasbiullin said: “Abdukodir is a player who has already shown that he is one of the best in his position in Europe.
“He is young and every day he becomes even stronger.
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“He deserves to play in the best clubs in Europe. We have a very good relationship with Lens and we are on the same side – we want the best for the player together If the transfer is successful, the club will receive a well-deserved reward for trusting the young player.”
The report adds that Lens are looking to raise funds this winter and selling Khusanov is an asset they are open to selling.
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