Newcastle United are reportedly ready to shell out around €20 million to sign Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo from Lille.
According to a report from Foot Mercato, Newcastle United are looking to sign Portuguese defender Tiago Djalo. And the Magpies are prepared to offer a sum of more than €20 million for him.
The 22-year-old defender has been a key player for Lille this season, and he has two goals in 18 league matches so far this season. It is no secret that Newcastle United need to add more quality and depth to their squad. And the 22-year-old could prove to be a quality long-term acquisition.
Newcastle have the best defense in the Premier League this season, conceding just 11 goals from 20 matches. Eddie Howe will look to build on that, and the arrival of Djalo will certainly improve them defensively. The 22-year-old can operate as a full-back as well, and his versatility will be an added bonus.
Lille paid Sporting CP a fee of around €4 million for his services. And the potential €20 million offer could prove to be a tempting proposition for the French outfit. It remains to be seen whether they are prepared to sanction his departure to Newcastle United in the summer.
The Portuguese defender has a contract with Lille until the summer of 2024. And the summer transfer window will be Lille’s final opportunity to recoup the maximum amount of money for him. Meanwhile, the 22-year-old has proven himself in France and will be determined to showcase his qualities at a higher platform now.
The opportunity to move to the Premier League will be an attractive option for the player. And Newcastle are certainly one of the biggest clubs in England. Furthermore, the Magpies are one of the richest clubs following their takeover and have an ambitious project. They are well-placed to secure UEFA Champions League qualification this season and will be an attractive option for most players in the summer.
Djalo is likely to be tempted to join the revolution at St. James’ Park. And a manager like Eddie Howe could help him improve and fulfill his potential. There is no reason why Newcastle cannot challenge for the major trophies given their resources and quality.
Djalo will feel that he can win silverware with the Magpies in the near future and achieve his potential in the Premier League. Meanwhile, Newcastle United have also shown interest in other defenders, including Stefan de Vrij.
It remains to be seen whether Newcastle come forward with a concrete proposal for the defender in the coming weeks now. If they manage to sign the player for €20 million in the coming months, it could look like a bargain for them. The 22-year-old is yet to reach his peak and will improve with game time and experience. He certainly has the potential to justify the outlay in the long run.
