Former target ‘offered’ to Newcastle but may be plan B for Bruce
Reports claim Newcastle United have been ‘offered’ the chance to sign RB Leipzig winger Ademola Lookman during the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old is just two years into a five-year deal with the Bundesliga outfit. But it appears as though he could well be on his way before the start of next season. Deemed surplus to requirements at Red Bull Arena, the former England Under-21 star was loaned to Fulham last term.
He impressed while at Craven Cottage, making 31 starts among 34 Premier League appearances It was not enough to keep the west Londoners in the top flight as they finished 18th to slip into the Championship.
Lookman has returned to Germany but The Chronicle state that he has been ‘offered’ to the Magpies. A fee of £10m has been mooted for the Londoner and it is unclear whether the Tynesiders would be prepared to pay that.
Uncertainty over the club’s ownership means Mike Ashley’s purse strings could be tighter than usual. And it has been suggested the figure quoted could be all Steve Bruce has at his disposal for summer recruitment.
Lookman began his career at Charlton Athletic before moving to Everton in January 2017. He spent the second half of 2017-18 on loan with Leipzig, scoring five goals in 11 outings.
And, after an ineffectual season back at Goodison Park, penned permanent terns with his present employers in July 2019. But it has not been a happy second spell and an exit appears on the cards.
Lookman already on Newcastle radar
Lookman was first mentioned in connection with the north-east club in January 2020. He was struggling to get any meaningful game time in the Bundesliga and talk had already turned to an English return.
A move failed to materialise and, with little prospect of anything improving, he was sent to Fulham. Other clubs are also thought to be in the picture as he has also been ‘offered’ to Southampton and Crystal Palace.
It is obvious that his representatives are touting the player around. Newcastle are still hopeful of landing Joe Willock.
And it may be that getting the 21-year-old on board on a permanent basis is more of a priority. He made a huge impact on loan during the second half of 2020-21, helping the side move well clear of the relegation zone.
Fans would love to have him back and Bruce confessed they are ‘badgering away’ to try and make it happen. Lookman may only be considered if the Arsenal man does not return before the start of next season.
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