Sources: Newcastle plotting 'huge' deal to sign sensation Mitchell knows well

Newcastle United are plotting a deal to sign highly-rated Monaco star Maghnes Akliouche, sources have told Football Insider.

Speaking on the latest edition of Football Insider’s Inside Track podcast, senior correspondent Pete O’Rourke explained that Paul Mitchell had worked closely with the striker during his time at Monaco and will lead the push to complete a deal.

However, sources say Monaco are reluctant to entertain talks in January and do not want to lose one of their prized assets after a strong start to the season.

The 22-year-old is under a long-term contract with the Ligue 1 club after signing a new deal earlier this summer, and it would take a huge fee to tempt the club to sell.

Newcastle remain desperate to reinforce Eddie Howe’s squad in January, with a new right-winger and the priority to help provide further balance to the team.

Both Harvey Barnes and Anthony Gordon are primarily left-sided players, and Howe is keen to land a specialist talent for the right side of his attacking line.

Some of Europe’s elite clubs are also closely monitoring the Frenchman’s progress and are prepared to rival Newcastle for his signature should a move become available.

Paul Mitchell key as Newcastle United plot Maghnes Akliouche deal with AS Monaco

Akliouche has enjoyed a terrific start to the season both in Ligue 1 and in the Champions League, where he scored in the 2-1 victory against Barcelona at Stade Louis II.

He remains one of the brightest talents emerging from France and represented his country at the Olympics over the summer where they were defeated in the gold-medal game.

As a result, Les Monegasques are desperate to keep him at the club and will demand a massive fee to entertain the idea of a sale, while any talks in January will be dismissed.

Since Mitchell’s arrival as Newcastle’s sporting director at the beginning of the summer, questions have been asked about their transfer plans.

A disappointing summer window saw just four players arrive, only one of which has started a game under Howe, while the squad remains in need of strengthening.

However, his close links with his former club are said to be a key influence in completing a possible deal for Akliouche, and he is leading the push for talks.

With the slow summer leaving Howe desperate to strengthen his squad, the club are preparing for a busy January transfer window and will push hard to get deals over the line.

In other news, Newcastle have been told to accept striker offer after a new twist.

For more Newcastle United and exclusive news, follow us on Facebook or join our brand new WhatsApp Channel for instant updates to be sent straight to your phone.

The post Sources: Newcastle plotting 'huge' deal to sign sensation Mitchell knows well appeared first on Football Insider.