Exclusive: Paul Mitchell interested in bringing ‘gifted’ Monaco attacker to Newcastle

• EXCLUSIVE from Graeme Bailey

It’s safe to say that Newcastle United didn’t enjoy the most harmonious nor successful transfer window this summer.

Newcastle’s flash sale ahead of the PSR deadline defined their summer business, a club who were then unable to push on in the months to come.

Paul Mitchell for his part will surely be hoping for better success come January and beyond, and there’s no doubt that Eddie Howe would enjoy the addition of one or two new faces as well.

Newcastle were believed to be chasing a right-winger this summer, a profile that never arrived to replace Miguel Almiron.

Instead, Jacob Murphy has stepped into that role, with Harvey Barnes even playing on the right on occasion.

That being said, TBR Football understands that Mitchell is now keen to bring Monaco forward Maghnes Akliouche to the club. 

Newcastle considering move for French gem Maghnes Aklilouche after Barcelona goal

Mitchell, who worked as Monaco’s sporting director prior to moving to Tyneside, has been looking at this former club for ‘gifted’ winger Akliouche. 

Mitchell knows the 22-year-old well and it is believed that he retains an interest in bringing Akliouche to Newcastle.

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Newcastle are in the market for an attacking midfielder and Akliouche, who represented France at the Olympics this summer, is understood to be a player they are currently following.

The Monaco man is fairly versatile, able to play centrally as a number 10 or out on the right wing, cutting in on his left foot.

And that in itself explains why he could be a good fit for Newcastle, who were thought to be interested in a very similar profile in Michael Olise this summer.

Akliouche has a long way to go before he’s considered in that echelon of players, but his recent goal against Barcleona in the Champions League showcased all of his potential.

Newcastle also interested in Ligue 1 raid for Jonathan David

Of course, it’s not just Akliouche that Newcastle are interested in right now, the club are also closely following Jonathan David’s situation at Lille.

Newcastle have been in talks to sign David, who has decided to leave Lille on a free transfer this summer once his contract expires.

As a result, the French side would be keen to sell David in January rather than losing him for nothing in six months time.

Therefore, Newcastle may be tempted into a move in the coming months, perhaps depending on Callum Wilson’s future.

Wilson is attracting interest ahead of January, perhaps someone who could pave the way for a new arrival.