Paris Saint Germain’s elimination from the Champions League this week could have presented Newcastle United with a summer transfer opportunity.
L’Equipe report that, following the ‘explosion’ of the elimination at the hands of Real Madrid this week, there will be ‘responses’ from the PSG hierarchy.
They are planning something of a fire-sale of the squad, and there is a growing list of players who could depart as a result.
Kylian Mbappe is the big name on that list, but he is likely to join Real Madrid on a free transfer when his contract comes to an end.
Beyond that, though, the list should make very interesting reading for Newcastle, who have the money to satisfy transfer demands and contracts alike.
For example, Georginio Wijnaldum will be shipped out after failing to prove his worth over the last year, and we’re sure Newcastle manager Eddie Howe would welcome him back to the club with open arms.
Abdou Diallo and Colin Dagba would also be welcome additions to the backline, with both players looking for a ‘more assertive status’ at a different club.
Then there is the likes of Presnel Kimpembe, who has ‘strong Premier League aspirations’, although PSG aren’t keen to see him go.
The same cannot be said for Mauro Icardi, who they would absolutely be happy to get rid of if someone is willing to offer enough. He’s exactly the kind of high profile player that was promised when Newcastle’s new owners arrived at St James Park.
Other names like Leandro Paredes, Idrissa Gueye, Thilo Kehrer are less attractive, as are Layvin Kurzawa, Julian Draxler, and Ander Herrera, and Newcastle could certainly match their wage demands to make a move happen.
This is all speculation on our part, of course, but the opportunity is there for the Magpies to fill their boots should they wish to.
