Rumor Has It

There have been plenty of rumors going around the transfer market this summer. After Newcastle’s move for Christian Atsu, many have waited impatiently for their next new incoming player. It looks as if that news is on its way.

According to Diario Vasco, a local news outlet in Eibar, Florian Lejeune will be a Newcastle player in the next few days. The report says Newcastle have triggered the €10M release clause for the French Center Back. It is being reported that it will be a cash up front deal and they will offer Lejeune a 4-year deal while doubling his salary.

Lejeune will be leaving Eibar after one season. The previous season, Lejeune was a Manchester City prospect loaned out for the second time to Girona. Although he never made an appearance for Man City, he started 79 games and scored 8 goals in two loan spells with Girona.

The Frenchman, while primarily a center back, can also be effective in a holding midfielder role. In La Liga last season, he was involved in 9 clean sheets, 1 goal, and was man of the match 3 times. Also, no other player had more clearances (191). Having someone his size (6’3) and top-level experience will be vital for Newcastle’s back line. His size alone can bring a tough presence to our defense that could bully Premier League strikers. He also is a threat on set pieces.

Along with Newcastle’s interest, Lejeune has also been linked with other top clubs such as Arsenal and Roma. However, due to Newcastle’s aggressive negotiations, it looks like we should be getting a fine CB in black and white…. with beautiful red numbers.