Newcastle United are reportedly working 'behind-the-scenes' on a potential deal for Tanguy Ndombele.

The Lowdown: In the cold

Ndombele has been left out in the cold by manager Antonio Conte ever since he joined Tottenham Hotspur, making just seven appearances in total over all competitions under the Italian, again not featuring in their opening game in the Premier League at home to Southampton (Transfermarkt).

The Frenchman has been training individually and away from the first team at Spurs, with the North London club clearly looking to get rid.

The Latest: In pole

As per French outlet Media Foot, the St. James' Park outfit are in 'pole' position to sign Ndombele, and despite not submitting an official offer, they are 'very active behind-the-scenes' over the potential deal.

However, Villarreal are also thought to be in the race for his signature, while the Lilywhites are asking for at least €50m (£42.3m), which would be a club-record fee for the Tynesiders.

The Verdict: Avoid

For all of the promise that Ndombele had when he signed for THFC in a club-record deal, it just has not worked out for the 25-year-old.

He has managed a measly ten goals and nine assists from the middle of the park over three consecutive campaigns (Transfermarkt), and has now fallen completely out of favour under consecutive managers.

The current coach has also questioned his attitude, and so Ndombele could be disruptive in the dressing room if he makes the move to the Magpies.

Nonetheless, the fee quoted is simply not worth it for a player who has so many question marks lurking over him, and so Eddie Howe's team should move on to other targets.