All the talk is about Marcus Thuram heading into the summer transfer window, but his younger brother Khephren Thuram could be the one to watch for Newcastle.
The younger Thuram was linked with Newcastle during the January transfer window, and it appears that he is still on the Magpies’ radar.
The 22-year-old recently admitted that he is aware of interest from Eddie Howe’s side, with plenty of top clubs queuing up to sign the Nice midfielder.
That is a testament to his ability, and it is why head of recruitment Steve Nickson is keen to bring him to St James’ Park.
Steve Nickson is a big fan of Khephren Thuram
According to the Athletic, Nickson is the Toon decision maker who likes Thuram. They describe him as an ‘intriguing midfield option’ heading into the summer transfer window.
The Newcastle recruitment team are searching for a midfielder ahead of next season, and want someone who can play in a deeper role to free up Bruno Guimaraes.
Scott McTominay has been heavily linked, and has the backing of Howe, Nickson and Dan Ashworth. However, it appears to be Nickson who is pushing the idea of bringing in Thuram – and it is easy to see why.
Standing at 6ft 4in, he can be the physical presence that Howe wants to sit in front of the defence. He is also strong in possession, capable of taking the ball in any area of the pitch and retaining it. Thuram can connect the defence to the midfield just like Bruno does now.
The Frenchman has a lovely passing range too, and is capable of the long balls over the top that made Jonjo Shelvey such a hit on Tyneside.
Thuram has all the tools that Newcastle are looking for in a midfielder, and the fact he has only just turned 22 is another bonus. Nickson is a fan, and we should certainly trust his judgement.
Nickson spotted Bruno years ago before Newcastle move
Newcastle brought in Bruno Guimaraes at the start of last year, and he has since established himself as the star attraction on Tyneside.
However, he was a player that Nickson identified long before he arrived in the North East. It was reported last year that the talent spotter knew all about Bruno back when he was still playing in Brazil. Now he has developed into one of the Premier League’s top stars.
Nickson’s judgement commands a lot of respect, especially with midfielders, which is why Toon fans should be very excited if the club listen to him and bring in Khephren Thuram.