Newcastle United are looking to improve their defence with the signing of Evan Ndicka, a target for Barcelona.
According to a report from Jeunes Footeux, Newcastle United are looking to sign Evan Ndicka this year. But the Magpies will face competition from clubs like Barcelona for the 23-year-old French defender.
The 23-year-old will be a free agent at the end of the season, and he is eligible to secure a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs this month. Newcastle could certainly use defensive reinforcements, and it will be interesting to see if they can secure a pre-contract agreement with the French defender this month.
Alternatively, the Magpies could look to pay a nominal price and bring the move forward to January as well. It will be interesting to see how the situation develops, particularly with several other European bigwigs keen on signing him.
Ndicka will have a number of options to choose from amid uncertainties surrounding his Eintracht Frankfurt future. It remains to be seen whether the player is keen on moving to Newcastle, especially with European giants like Barcelona interested in him.
Barcelona need to add defensive depth to their side, with Gerard Pique leaving the club recently. The 23-year-old French centre-back could prove to be a useful acquisition, especially on a free transfer amid their financial crunch.
Ndicka is only 23 and is expected to improve further with experience and coaching. He could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition for the Blaugrana. Furthermore, Barcelona are going through financial constraints. And signing a player on a free transfer would be ideal for them.
On the other hand, Newcastle are fighting for a place in the UEFA Champions League and could certainly use more quality in the squad. Signing a player like Ndicka this month could boost their chances of a top-four finish. And the Magpies certainly have the financial resources to tempt the 23-year-old.
Other Premier League clubs like Manchester United and West Ham United are thought to be keeping tabs on the player as well. And it will be interesting to see where the 23-year-old defender ends up eventually.