Newcastle United could look to add a new attacker before the end of the month, with Lens star Ignatius Ganago a reported target.
According to L’Equipe, Newcastle United have contacted the entourage of Lens forward Ignatius Ganago intending to make a move before this month’s transfer deadline.
Newcastle United are looking to get transfer deals over the line to strengthen their squad before the January transfer deadline. They need to bring in quality players to fight off relegation, with defenders and midfielders their primary targets.
Since the injury sustained by key forward Callum Wilson in December threatened to weaken their attacking force, Newcastle have swiftly signed Chris Wood from Burnley. They paid the £25 million release clause in the New Zealand international’s contract at Turf Moor in an attempt to resolve their issues upfront.
As the club continues to focus on bringing central defenders after signing right-back Kieran Trippier earlier this month, they might also be looking at another attacker. Lens forward Ignatius Ganago is their reported new target, as the Magpies prepare to make an offer to the French side for the Cameroon international.
Ganago is currently away with Cameroon for the AFCON, but he might still make it back in time to finalise a transfer if things move in the right direction. While the attacking third is hardly a priority anymore, the Magpies are still interested in strengthening the area with a young option. They are also reportedly interested in Atalanta’s Duvan Zapata.
The Lens star has started only seven times this season, scoring three goals in the process. Yet, his versatile nature and ability to play in multiple front three positions make him a valuable addition. Newcastle have reportedly contacted his entourage to understand the requirements of an offer.
The Cameroon international could certainly be tempted with a move to the Premier League; it’s Lens who may need convincing over a deal. The French side may not see the need to sell the striker in this window, although with Ganago’s contract having just about 30 months left, they might see the value in cashing in this January.
Lens may charge a reasonable fee and let the forward leave, which would surely weaken their attack for the rest of the season. As for Newcastle, they might be willing to take the risk on an unproven player with little experience at the top level, who might not only boost their survival campaign but also help the club rebuild in the Championship in the event of relegation.
