Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Tiago Djalo from Lille this summer.
That is according to Inter Live, who claim that Newcastle are going to challenge Inter Milan for the signature of the Portuguese defender. He has made 24 appearances this season, and is attracting interest from clubs across Europe.
They state that Djalo’s agent was actually at Inter’s Champions League game against Porto on Wednesday night. Inter Live add that the 22-year-old is keen on a move to the Serie A club, but there’s a problem.
The report suggests that money is an issue for Inter. They are hoping to get Djalo for less than his asking price, whereas Newcastle are prepared to meet Lille’s demands.
Inter Live believe that the Magpies are ready to offer £17.6million for the defender, who is very familiar with one player at St James’ Park right now.
Tiago Djalo knows Newcastle star Sven Botman
Djalo has been playing for Lille since 2019, and won the Ligue 1 title in his second season. And he did it alongside Newcastle’s star centre-back Sven Botman.
The pair played together in France for two seasons before Botman left to sign for the Magpies. Eddie Howe’s side paid Lille £35million for the youngster, and he has been sensational in a Toon shirt.
He has fitted in brilliantly at St James’ Park, and Inter Live’s report suggests that he could soon be reunited with an old teammate.
Newcastle are going to be in the market for a new centre-back this summer – especially if Jamaal Lascelles leaves. It has been reported that the club will listen to offers for him.
Whoever does arrive will be someone young with lots of potential who can go on and eventually replace Fabian Schar. When Newcastle sign a centre-back, they will be looking for someone who can play alongside Botman long-term.
Could that be Djalo? They already know each other, and he is seemingly available for a decent fee.
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