Newcastle United have once again turned their attention to France in the transfer market, now looking at Desire Doue from Stade Rennais.
The 18-year-old wonderkid has been labeled as ‘France’s next big thing‘ after a superb breakout season for Rennes in Ligue 1.
Newcastle aren’t the only team looking at Desire Doue with Barcelona and PSG keen on him too, however L’equipe (via Sports Witness) claim that Newcastle are the only team to have made a move so far, so we could be about to steal a march on the opposition.
Doue helped Rennes finish fourth in Ligue 1 with 26 appearances
Doue showed what he is capable of over his 34 appearances in all competitions last season and caught the eye of Europe’s elite.
Obviously, Rennes won’t be too keen to sell their hottest prospect, but Doue’s contract expires in 2025 and Rennes will be very aware that now could be their best chance to sell him for any decent amount.
Despite all of the praise coming Doue’s way, and Rennes’ reluctance to sell, I News claim that he could be available for as little as £12million which would be incredible for Newcastle who are apparently working to a tight budget.
Desire Doue is an alternative to Gabri Veiga who looks set to snub Newcastle
The attacking midfielder could be first-team-ready after helping Rennes to a top-four finish last season, he knows what it’s like to play for a side challenging at the top of the table.
I can see this one happening for sure, as long as we’re able to get in quickly before Barcelona and PSG wake up.
Doue is apparently seen as an alternative to Gabri Veiga by Newcastle with the Spanish youngster looking increasingly likely to head to Chelsea. Veiga would cost Newcastle £35million so I have no problem missing out on him if we can pick up Doue for almost a third of that amount.
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