Newcastle United are ready to battle Liverpool in the pursuit of Khephren Thuram as Eddie Howe targets a new midfielder.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United have identified Khephren Thuram as an alternative to Nicolo Barella. If the Magpies pursue the OGC Nice midfielder, they will have to pit their wits against Liverpool, who are also keen on the £35 million-rated Frenchman.
Khephren Thuram remains one of the underrated names in this transfer window, and it is quite a surprise not many top teams are on his case. Yet, a few are considering making a move for the midfielder with two years left on his OGC Nice deal.
Thuram has lofty ambitions and will seek a move to a top club if an offer arrives. As things stand, Liverpool have shown an interest in the midfielder for his quality and the potential £35 million price tag attached. The Frenchman is considered a cheaper alternative to some of the other names that will cost nearly double his price.
Liverpool have already surprised many by signing World Cup winner Alexis Mac Allister for £35 million. They are eager to bring in another midfielder as there is a considerable gap in the positions following the departures of three players.
Hence, it is in Liverpool’s best interest to pursue the £35 million-rated Frenchman and tie up a move. While they may have felt the road is clear for the OGC Nice midfielder, Newcastle United threaten their chances as Eddie Howe lines up a move for Thuram.
The interest comes after Newcastle United’s failed pursuit of Nicolo Barella. Howe is in the market for a box office midfielder. But the Tyneside club were unwilling to pay more than £50 million for the Italian international. Inter Milan are reportedly holding out for £70 million, which effectively prices out the Magpies.
They are in a similar position with top target James Maddison, with Newcastle unwilling to match the £50 million demanded by Leicester City. In any case, Howe wants a new midfielder to shore up his options and start playing Bruno Guimaraes in an advanced role.
Thuram’s £35 million price tag would excite Newcastle to make a move, as the Frenchman is one of the most promising midfielders in Europe. As a bonus, they will also offer Champions League football compared to Liverpool’s Europa League, which could become a key factor.
However, Newcastle United are yet to reach the level of being able to attract players like Liverpool do. Hence, if both teams come into the mix for the £35 million-rated Frenchman, then the Merseysiders might have the upper hand owing to their history and Jurgen Klopp.
