Newcastle United have taken a strong interest in signing the Ligue 1 midfielder Morgan Sanson, according to reports.
The Frenchman has been followed by many English sides over the course of his career, with Manchester United monitoring him closely a few years ago.
But the Magpies will have some familiar competition for his signature.
According to Le 10 Sport, both the Magpies and West Ham United have shown “firm intentions” to make a move for Sanson next summer. With Ligue 1 cut short, it can give Marseille some time to resolve the future of the 25-year-old.
The report also adds that the French outfit will demand around €50m (£43.7m) for his services, having apparently already turned down a €30m (£26.2m) in the past few months, with AC Milan believed to also be interested.
Would Morgan Sanson be a good fit at St James' Park?
Yes
No
Sanson has done very well for Marseille during his time with the Les Olympiens, scoring five goals and providing five assists in 30 appearances during the current campaign.
His skill set could benefit both our squad and West Ham’s, helping the push towards the top half of the table where both sides want to be.
Typically a central midfielder, Sanson’s strengths come in the form of his defensive contributions and his concentration levels. He is a player that likes to dribble with the ball and loves a tackle.
It would be quite an investment for us to make, and a brave one at that. There is not a chance that Sanson is worth £43m, regardless of whether or not we have a lot of money to spend during the next transfer window.