Newcastle transfer news: Magpies to make ‘big’ offer for Lyon’s Malo Gusto

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Newcastle United are reportedly planning to make a bid to sign Malo Gusto.

That is according to French outlet Foot Mercato, who claim that the Magpies are ‘ready to make a very big offer’ to sign the 19-year-old.

Gusto is a right-back who plays for Lyon in Ligue 1. He was linked with a move to St James’ Park in late December, with the Daily Mail stating that Newcastle had joined Manchester United in the race to sign the teenager.

That report suggested that Newcastle could have an advantage, with the Red Devils putting any bid off until the summer. That would give the Magpies a chance to get their man in January without the threat of Man United.

And now Foot Mercato believe that could be the case.

Newcastle look to win race for Malo Gusto

Foot Mercato believe there are some major clubs competing for Gusto’s signature. They state that Real Madrid, Barcelona, Bayern Munich, Chelsea, Tottenham and Juventus are all keen.

However, they will have to compete with Newcastle. Foot Mercato report that the Magpies are preparing to send Lyon an offer – a club they dealt with this time last year.

Bruno Guimaraes signed for the club during last year’s January transfer window, costing £35million from Lyon. He has turned out to be a transformative signing on Tyneside, and is well on the way to becoming a Toon legend.

Now Newcastle could follow that deal up by signing one of his former teammates in Gusto.

Eddie Howe is currently in the market for a right-back. The Magpies are looking for someone young who can act as backup to Kieran Trippier, before eventually replacing the 32-year-old when the time is right.

Ivan Fresneda appeared to be the frontrunner, and is the player who is being most heavily linked with a move to St James’ Park.

However, this story from France regarding a bid for Gusto could change things. He is another teenager who is very highly rated, and is enjoying an impressive season in Ligue 1.

Gusto fits the bill of what Newcastle are looking for in a right-back. He is young and has stacks of potential, much like Fresneda.

But the French defender might cost more money than the Real Valladolid teen. Foot Mercato believe that Lyon want around £26.6million for Gusto.

A bid worth that much would represent a significant investment from Newcastle, at a time when the club are looking to keep on the right side of financial fair play.