Newcastle United are reportedly considering making a bid for Borussia Monchengladbach striker Marcus Thuram in January to sign him on a free transfer.

The Lowdown: One to watch

Thuram will certainly be a player to watch at the FIFA World Cup in Qatar, as he was called up to the France squad.

Due to injury, Real Madrid striker Karim Benzema will now miss the tournament, meaning that Thuram's minutes are likely to be increased during the group stages.

The Latest: Bid considered

As per The Sun, the St. James' Park outfit 'may bid' for Thuram in January, while fellow Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur, Liverpool and Arsenal are 'also keen' on his signature.

His contract at Gladbach is due to expire in the summer, meaning that he can sign a pre-contract agreement with a non-German club in January and join for free in the summer, with the North East club looking to pounce, although the owners are also 'happy to back' Eddie Howe with a 'big bid' to sign him now and then.

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The Verdict: No-brainer

Signing a player of Thuram's quality, especially if they can get him on a free transfer, is surely a no-brainer for the Tynesiders.

Hailed as 'world class' by Wolfsburg sporting director Marcel Schafer, the 25-year-old ranks in the top 5% for non-penalty xG, top 8% for dribbles completed and top 10% for shots and interceptions out of all strikers in Europe's top five leagues over the past year per FBRef.

His similar to club-record signing Alexander Isak.

Nonetheless, with Callum Wilson an option up top as well, the Magpies could form a truly scary strike force.