Newcastle United are reportedly 'very keen' on signing RB Leipzig central midfielder Amadou Haidara alongside the links to Youri Tielemans.

The Lowdown: Midfield cover needed

Given the recent injury scare to Bruno Guimaraes, and the fact that Jonjo Shelvey is still on the treatment table, the St. James' Park outfit need to bring in some cover in the heart of their midfield.

They have recently been linked with moves for the likes of Tiemoue Bakayoko and Leander Dendoncker, so it is clear that work is going on behind the scenes to try and bring someone in before the deadline.

The Latest: Haidara interest

Speaking to NUFC Blog, journalist Jacque Talbot has revealed that the North East club are 'very keen' on Haidara, as well as the more heavily reported Tielemans:

“There’s still a feeling Newcastle would spend good money if the right deal came up in midfield.

“They’re very keen on both Amadou Haidara of RB Leipzig and Leicester’s Youri Tielemans.

“Leipzig are playing hardball with Haidara, but things could open up with the right offer now Laimer is staying. Newcastle hold a long-term interest here.

“As for Tielemans, he wants to leave. Liverpool are admirers and Arsenal may look to him if they decide to act on injuries to Partey and Elneny. But Newcastle are certainly keen and know this could be their chance now he’s entered the final 12 months of his contract at Leicester.

“Don’t rule out another big signing before the window shuts. They might just have another ace up their sleeve.”

The Verdict: Great alternative

If they cannot sign Tielemans, Haidara should be seen as a great alternative for the Tynesiders.

Hailed as an 'excellent footballer' with 'a lot of dynamism' by former Borussia Dortmund manager Marco Rose, the 24-year-old should be able to provide adequate cover for Bruno and Shelvey while they are out injured.

Despite his age, Haidara is very experienced at the highest level, playing over 100 times across the UEFA Champions League and Bundesliga combined, while he has also been capped 32 times at international level with Mali (Transfermarkt).

Nonetheless, the Magpies should be given some encouragement that fellow midfielder Konrad Laimer is staying at Leipzig, which could open up an opportunity for Haidara to leave.