Newcastle United target Adrien Rabiot has admitted that he ‘would love to play’ in the Premier League amid links to St. James’ Park.

The Lowdown: Leading the race

The Frenchman’s contract at Juventus is set to expire at the end of the season and he hasn’t yet signed an extension, which has alerted several clubs that he could become a free agent next summer.

The Magpies have been credited with a strong interest in the midfielder in recent weeks after reports suggested that they are leading the race for his signature, and the player himself may have now provided a boost.

The Latest: Rabiot’s promising update

Speaking to L’Equipe (via Sport Witness), Rabiot hinted that he would like to make a return to England after leaving Manchester City's academy at a young age, though he didn’t give away where his next destination could be:

“It’s a goal to play in the Premier League.

“England at 13 was a very good experience even though I barely did a year.

“I really liked the atmosphere there, it’s something different from France or Italy. I would love to play there in my career, I’ve always said that.”

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The Verdict: Potential bargain

Rabiot will be able to negotiate a pre-contract agreement with overseas clubs from January onwards, and given his transfer situation, Newcastle should be able to snap him up for a bargain - reports earlier in this week say he could be available for just €15-20m (£12.9-17.2m).

The Saint-Maurice native already has three goals and two assists in 11 Serie A starts this season, standing out as his club's highest-rated player on Whoscored's ranking system.

PIF are reportedly plotting a blockbuster signing in the winter, and Rabiot's contract situation means they could probably afford him alongside a second big deal.