Nick Hammond is reportedly now 'interested' in signing Benoit Badiashile for Newcastle United in the January transfer window.

The Lowdown: Hammond busy

Having been hired as a transfer consultant on a short-term deal at St. James' Park (Sky Sports), Hammond is likely to be a very busy man this month.

Kieran Trippier has already been brought in, and now it looks like a new central defender is next on the list.

Both Sven Botman and Diego Carlos have been heavily linked with a switch to the North East recently, as they look to bolster up their defence even more.

The Latest: Badiashile interest

As per Foot Mercato journalist and transfer expert Santi Aouna, the Tyneside outfit, as well as West Ham United, are now 'interested' in signing Badiashile, and there has already been 'contact made' with AS Monaco and the player's representatives.

They will 'take action' in the event that deals for either Botman or Carlos fall through.

The Verdict: Great alternative

If deals cannot be done for Botman or Carlos, than Badiashile is a great alternative.

Standing at six foot four, the Frenchman is a beast, and not only is he a threat physically, but he is also 'very good technically' and 'very fast', according to Monaco Vice President Oleg Petrov (Get French Football News).

Badiashile has the whole package as a centre-back, and the scary thing is he is just 20 years of age, and so has a big future ahead of him.

Nonetheless, he would be a shrewd signing by the Magpies, especially if they can snap him up this month.

In other news, find out which 'monster' NUFC have now started talks with here!