Newcastle United are reportedly in a race with West Ham United to sign Mario Lemina from Southampton, according to The Guardian.

As per the news outlet, the St. James' Park faithful are interested in signing him when his current loan spell at Fulham expires at the end of the 2020/21 term, and he is understood to be available for £7m.

Lemina could be a bargain for Newcastle

Given that he is currently valued at £9m by Transfermarkt, potentially snapping Lemina up for a mere £7m could turn out to be somewhat of a bargain for the North East club.

The Gabon international, who currently earns £64,000-per-week at the Saints, has won no fewer than 4.1 of his duels a game in the Premier League so far this season, and is also averaging 1.8 tackles and 1.1 interceptions per match (Sofascore).

Given his added experience in the top flight, Lemina would certainly give Steve Bruce another decent option in the centre of midfield, and at 27 years of age, he is entering his prime years as a football player.

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Nonetheless, given also the financial constraints that the Tyneside club are likely going to have to face in the summer transfer window because of the impact of the global pandemic, £7m for Lemina could be a shrewd piece of business by the Magpies.

In other news, find out which 'outstanding' giant NUFC are pressing to sign here!