Ben Jacobs has now dropped some Newcastle United transfer news involving Ousmane Dembele.

The Lowdown: Contract stalemate

There is still a stalemate between Dembele and FC Barcelona over a new deal, with manager Xavi recently claiming that he needs to renew his deal or look to leave in the January transfer window.

The winger is out of contract in the summer, and has recently released a statement claiming that talks are 'ongoing' over a potential new deal, should demands be met.

Nonetheless, with the days ticking by and Barca more likely to want to sell so long as the new contract is not signed, it may present an opportunity for the St. James' Park faithful to pounce.

The Latest: Dembele offer?

As per CBS Sports journalist Jacobs, the North East club have not put forward an official offer for Dembele as of yet, but they have been 'considering' signing him since November:

"I am told neither Newcastle or Manchester United have tabled an official offer yet.

"Xavi wants an answer on Dembele's renewal (which would force him to take a wage cut) this week to allow time for a possible January transfer."

The Verdict: Potential bargain

If the Magpies can persuade Dembele to come to Tyneside, then it could turn out to be a potential bargain, thanks to his contract situation.

He should be available for a cut price with just six months left, or they could even sign him up on a pre-contract agreement for free, although the latter would be risky given uncertainty over their Premier League status at the end of the season.

Described as 'unplayable' at times by Rio Ferdinand, the Frenchman will want to prove why Barca spent so much money to get him from Borussia Dortmund back in 2017, and it's fair to say the Toon Army have an appreciation for skilful French wingers.

It is hard to forget that he is still only 24 years of age, having had so much promise so young, as former teammate Lionel Messi even went as far as to call his ability 'frightening' back when he was at the Nou Camp.

Nonetheless, Dembele has a point to prove, and Eddie Howe's team could reap the benefits from it.

In other news, find out the latest on NUFC's move for this Premier League 'diamond' here!