Newcastle United will have been watching closely as Eintracht Frankfurt won the Europa League last night.
The Bundesliga side beat Rangers in Seville, winning their first European cup since 1980.
Frankfurt won the final on penalties, with 120 minutes unable to separate the two sides. Oliver Glasner’s side were relentless in the penalty shootout, converting all five spot kicks. Aaron Ramsey missed for Rangers, sending the trophy back to Germany.
There was joy for Frankfurt, but agony for Rangers, who were captained by former Newcastle player James Tavernier.
However, it was the Eagles’ night, whose team included Toon target Evan Ndicka.
Evan Ndicka wins the Europa League
The 22-year-old played 100 minutes for Frankfurt last night on route to receiving his winners medal. He was certainly impressive in the final, which will have delighted Newcastle scouts.
The Magpies have been linked with Ndicka recently. The Chronicle recently claimed that the defender is a £23million target.
Newcastle had planned to scout Ndicka at the London Stadium last month, but he was suspended for the semi-final first leg against West Ham. Luckily, they were reportedly able to cast their eye over him in the second leg.
Ndicka has played very well for Frankfurt this season, leading to speculation of a move away. That is only heightened by the fact his contract expires in 2023.
They may have to cash in this summer, but last night’s triumph might have given them an ace.
Winning the Europa League means Frankfurt will be in next season’s Champions League. That could be enough to entice Ndicka to stay put.
But Newcastle suddenly have immense pulling power. We’ve already brought in big name players who’ve been competing in Europe.
Ndicka became a Frankfurt hero last night, and his performance will certainly have caught Newcastle’s attention.
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