Newcastle United will now focus on beating Liverpool to sign Thuram.
According to Football Insider, Newcastle United are likely to shift their focus to other targets after receiving little encouragement in their pursuit of Inter Milan striker Nicolo Barella.
Nice player Khéphren Thuram is reportedly adored by the Magpies, who are looking for a box-office midfielder this summer.
On Saturday (16 June), Football Insider stated that Barella is not interested in a prospective move to Newcastle, with only one of the Premier League’s “big boys” capable of luring him away from Inter.
That isn’t the only stumbling block in negotiations; the Tyneside club is also only willing to spend £50 million for the Italian’s talents.
Inter are willing to pay £70 million for the 26-year-old, according to Football Insider on Friday (16 June).
As a result, Newcastle is prepared to pursue other options once the transfer window opens on Wednesday (14 June).
Thuram, a quality midfielder, is a player appreciated by St James’ Park’s transfer chiefs.
According to Football Insider, Liverpool are in preliminary talks with the France Under-21 international regarding a possible move to Anfield.
The 22-year-old is expected to cost prospective suitors little over £35 million.
Thuram, who will be out of contract on the French Riviera in just two years, has two goals and eight assists in 48 appearances across all competitions in 2022-23.
He will represent France’s Under-21 team at this summer’s European Championships in Georgia, beginning with Les Bleus’ first match against Italy on June 22.
Newcastle will compete in the Champions League for the first time in 20 years in the 2023-24 season, while possible transfer rivals Liverpool will compete in the Europa League.
Leave a Reply