Newcastle United are keen on Ligue 1 duo Desire Doue and Kevin Danso as Eddie Howe eyes smart reinforcements for his overachieving squad.
According to Jeunesfooteux, Newcastle United’s eye moves for Ligue 1 duo Desire Doue and Kevin Danso whenever the right opportunity presents itself. The players are contracted with Stade Rennais and RC Lens, respectively, and interests Eddie Howe, who wants to continue intelligently building the squad.
Eddie Howe has transformed Newcastle United’s fortunes since taking over as manager a year ago. This time last season, they were prime relegation candidates, but they have turned around the form and now have set on a different course.
The Magpies currently are favourites to finish in the top four as they sit behind Manchester City in the third spot. Additionally, they are outsiders to challenge Arsenal and Man City for the title, and even if they don’t, Howe has steered them into an unprecedented position.
There’s the big hand of transfers involved in this rise, but contrary to notions regarding their financial muscle, Newcastle United have spent rather wisely. Howe may have the means to splash big on certain players but chose to sign stars that benefit the team in the present and the short-term future.
For now, Howe has a decent squad, but there are question marks over their depth in quality. Newcastle still needs players that complete the setup, and the manager is looking for smart signings rather than expensive acquisitions.
While they remained linked with several high-profile stars, Howe is keen on bringing players that steadily improve their current squad. A new central midfielder, attacking midfielder and defender are deemed necessary. They only signed Sven Botman in the summer, and the Dutchman has proved a practical buy.
Howe wants to strengthen the backline efficiently and targets RC Lens star Kevin Danso to compete with Fabian Schar. The Austrian is a 24-year-old central defender vying to play at the top level after seemingly exceeding expectations in Ligue 1 for quite some time.
Danso has a reported value between €40-50 million, something Newcastle United might see as feasible for a defender planned to shore up the backline for the long term. Meanwhile, the Magpies also hold an interest in teenager Desire Doue.
Doue is coming of age this season, having put in some impressive displays with Stade Rennes. Newcastle United have already had approaches made to sign him, but there are doubts about whether the Ligue 1 side will allow a January transfer. However, since the Magpies consider these players for the long-term future, they could remain patient in their pursuit.
For now, discussions could be held with the two Ligue 1 sides this month to complete a transfer in the summer. The duo could move in the current window, although much will depend on the deals the club can broker with the French sides.
