Newcastle United are interested in Alphonse Areola, although West Ham United could still trigger the buy option valid until 30 June.
According to RMC Sport, Newcastle United have entered the chase for Alphonse Areola. The PSG star was Lukasz Fabianski’s understudy last season while on loan at West Ham United, who holds a buy option, which is valid until 30 June.
Alphonse Areola is steadily coming into demand as Newcastle United emerge as the latest club to show an interest. The Magpies are in the market for a new goalkeeper and are looking at the Frenchman as a possible target.
The Frenchman spent the last two seasons on loan at Fulham and then West Ham United, as his PSG career fizzled out. The performances in the 2020/21 season led to the Hammers bringing him on board for the 2021/22 campaign. He did an impressive job at the Cottagers, who remain interested in signing him again.
At the London Stadium, Areola couldn’t break his way into David Moyes’ starting lineup in the Premier League, with Lukasz Fabianski their undisputed No. 1. The Frenchman played in the Europa League and cup clashes, with the Hammers going far in multiple competitions.
West Ham remain interested in making his move permanent, although they have not yet triggered the buy option present in his loan deal. The clause is valid until 30 June, which allows the Hammers to wait before making a firm decision.
While Moyes deliberates a decision, Newcastle United are interested in the keeper. Eddie Howe is keen on bringing in a new shot-stopper for next season after being left unimpressed by existing options at the club. Dean Henderson was their primary target, although the Manchester United man carries a huge price tag.
Areola could be a cost-effective, experienced option Howe is looking for, and the Frenchman could be installed as their No. 1 keeper at the start of next season. One of Martin Dubravka or Karl Darlow could depart the club, as the Magpies will have to make space in the squad.
Newcastle are set to embark on a critical transfer window, as several players could arrive. Howe wants his team to break into the top-six next season and will need quality players in every position. Areola could be a wise option to steady the area between the posts for the next few seasons.
However, Newcastle’s chances will hinge on West Ham and their decision to sign Areola permanently. Additionally, the 29-year-old Frenchman could also have a say in where he ends up next season, as he considers all of his options. If the Magpies can guarantee regular football next term and Moyes keeps faith in Fabianski, Areola might decide in favour of Howe’s side.