Newcastle to dip into French market again

The French revolution could be set to continue at Newcastle United, with reports linking them to young French prodigy Geoffrey Kondogbia of Lens.

Newcastle manager Alan Pardew or ‘Alain Pardeux’ as the Toon Army have often referred to him as due to the recent influx of French based signings made during his tenure on Tyneside, has made no secret that the French market represents great value for money and now he could be set to unearth potentially another gem.

Kondogbia is an 18-year old defensive midfielder currently plying his trade in France’s Ligue 2, and reports are suggesting a possible £2m price tag will be attached to the teenager which again will represent great value for money if the deal is struck.

The Magpies have been flying this campaign and after 30 matches sit level on 50 points with Chelsea and an incredible eight ahead of Liverpool, and there is no secret to the Sports Direct Arena outfits success, the summer signings have been nothing short of a masterstroke.

French international Yohan Cabaye made the move from French league and Cup champions Lille last summer and has enjoyed a fine campaign at the heart of midfield with Cheik Tiote, Hatem Ben Arfa has also been showing just why he’s rated as one of the brightest prospects in France with some glowing performances of late.

Whilst other signings with roots from across the English Channel include Gabriel Obertan, Sylvain Marveaux, Mehdi Abeid and Paris-born Demba Ba.

Newcastle’s chief scout Graham Carr has been scouring the French market for some time now and with the club striding towards European football next season they are certainly reaping the rewards, the potential move for Kondogbia will again fit owner Mike Ashley’s profile of new buys or bargains as they seem to become with the club stating young and low priced players as the kind they are looking to bring in.

@simonblaquiere1

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