Newcastle United are set to rival Chelsea and Tottenham Hotspur for Jonathan Ikone as L’Equipe (via David Crossman) have reported that the clubs from the Premier League have sounded out LOSC Lille for the transfer.
As per the journalist, the French newspaper also claimed that they turned down an offer from SSC Napoli in 2018 worth 70 million euros, which is the equivalent of around £63.4 million.
#NUFC L'Equipe reports that Newcastle, along with Chelsea and Tottenham, have sounded out Lille for the transfer of French international attacking midfielder Jonathan Ikoné. Paper claims club turned down 70 million euros for him from Napoli in 2018
— David Crossan (@davidmcrossan) July 15, 2020
Indeed, Ikone enjoyed a relatively impressive 2019/20 season in France, scoring four goals and making seven assists in 36 games in all competitions, according to Transfermarkt.
The 22-year old also showed his versatility by playing in five different roles, which may help Steve Bruce and his team going forward when changing formation and tactics.
Comparing the stats of Ikone in Ligue 1 to the likes of Allan Saint-Maximin, Christian Atsu and Miguel Almiron in the Premier League so far in this campaign, the Frenchman has recorded the most assists, while also averaging more passes and through balls per league game (via Whoscored).
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His superior stats to find and pick out his teammates coupled up with his versatility to play in a variety of different positions may prove to be a valuable asset at St. James’ Park, providing that a deal can be struck from the North East of course.
Ikone may also have an added incentive to join up with the Tyneside club should the proposed takeover of the Magpies be approved by the top flight, as he may find himself surrounded by quality on the pitch.
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Nevertheless, everything is all speculation up until this point until a final decision is made, but the midfielder may be one that the Toon Army should wish to consider bringing to NUFC.
Geordies, would Ikone be a good signing? Comment below!
