Transfer News: Newcastle eyeing to beat Chelsea in Lucas Digne pursuit
According to ESPN, Newcastle United are interested in signing Chelsea target Lucas Digne permanently in the ongoing transfer window.
The Frenchman has developed into a top-level left-back in the last few seasons. The 28-year-old has been a key performer for the Toffees. However, a fallout with the current manager Rafa Benitez has pushed the former Barcelona player into hot waters. He hasn’t featured a single match since the 1-4 defeat against Liverpool in the first week of December.
Thomas Tuchel has been facing a lot of problems with the Left-back position due to the injury of Ben Chilwell. The English full-back has been out for a long time, but there is a possibility that he could recover fully before the end of the season. Therefore, Blues have been interested in a loan move for Digne to cover the short term losses.
Inter Milan and Napoli have also kept a tab on the situation regarding Digne.
However, it is believed that Newcastle have entered the race and offers a more viable opportunity for Digne to leave Everton. It is believed that Eddie Howe’s team intends to lure the French defender permanently from Goodison Park. The Toffees have valued the left-back around £25m. After the Saudi takeover, it is believed that the Magpies wouldn’t have any problem meeting the asking price.
Chelsea have fallen in the backfoot after the recent injuries. After Ben Chilwell’s injury, only Marcos Alonso is available. The Spaniard is ageing, and the German manager has to use him cautiously to avoid further fitness concerns.
However, the situation is difficult for Chelsea’s title hopes. Thomas Tuchel’s team has fallen 8 points behind league leaders Manchester City, a hefty margin looking at the title chase.
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Thomas Tuchel needs short-term help, and Digne can be the man. With a lot of Premier League experience, his presence in the backline could relieve Thomas Tuchel for a while. But, Newcastle’s stance could prove disadvantageous for the North London board. Blues, however, could leverage the guarantee of Champions League football next season to gain favour with the French defender.