Newcastle United sporting director Dan Ashworth will be the man to oversee the Magpies’ transfer dealings ahead of the January transfer window, with the 51-year-old likely plotting ways to strengthen Eddie Howe’s ranks heading into the second half of the season.
One potential target who could sufficiently bolster the Tynesiders’ current squad is Angers starlet Azzedine Ounahi, with 90min reporting that the Premier League high-fliers are one of multiple clubs who are keeping tabs on the 22-year-old.
The Morocco playmaker has come to wider attention as a result of his standout showings at the World Cup in recent weeks, which has reportedly led to the Ligue 1 outfit slapping a €45m (£39m) price tag on his head.
According to the Daily Mail, however, any potential suitors are likely to lodge bids closer to £20m in the hope of prising the midfield maestro from the Ligue 1 strugglers, with the Casablanca native having been a “revelation” in Qatar, according to talent scout Jacek Kulig.
That quality was evident as Ounahi helped to inspire the Atlas Lions to the semi-final stage following a remarkable run in the competition, having started six of his nation’s seven matches at the tournament.
The breakout star proved a real livewire in the centre of the park for Walid Regragui’s side, showcasing his all-round talent by averaging 1.3 tackles and one interception per game, while also recording 1.4 successful dribbles per match to illustrate his dynamic brilliance.
The “absolutely incredible” gem – as lauded by AS Roma boss Jose Mourinho – was particularly impressive in the quarter-final triumph over Portugal, having won seven of his eight ground duels on the night while also recording a 100% dribble success rate.
Such performances on the big occasion have unsurprisingly piqued the interest of Ashworth and co, although the 17-cap starlet has not only proven impressive for his country in recent times, having also sparkled at club level of late.
The former Avranches midfielder notably ranks in the top 1% in Europe for dribbles completed among those in his position over the past 12 months, while also showcasing his creative talents as he ranks in the top 5% for progressive passes received.
A player who is truly comfortable on the ball, Ounahi could well be an astute capture for Newcastle if they are to win the race for his signature, with the hope being that he can replicate his stunning recent form at the World Cup if he moves to St James’ Park.
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