Newcastle hoped to keep second January transfer signing ‘under wraps’ amid new development
Newcastle legend Alan Shearer discusses the club takeover
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Newcastle had reportedly hoped to keep their pursuit of Norwich City’s Todd Cantwell under wraps, although word has now spread that the Magpies are firming up their interest in the out-of-favour midfielder. The news comes as Eddie Howe and co. are believed to have launched a fresh bid for Sven Botman, just hours after completing their first deal of the window.
It has certainly been a busy Friday for the Toon, and indeed a busy January window thus far as they battle to avoid relegation.
Their rivals have been left to look on with envy as Kieran Trippier was unveilled this morning, with the former Atletico Madrid man signing a two-and-a-half year deal.
And with more than three weeks remaining in the window, Newcastle are seemingly in no mood to rest on their laurels with multiple targets still in the crosshairs.
According to The Telegraph, Cantwell is one of them, and the club’s interest is becoming increasingly serious.
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The report adds that figures behind the scenes at St James’ Park had hoped to keep the pursuit ‘under wraps’.
Presumably that is due, in part, to the fact that numerous clubs could be in with a shot of landing Cantwell due to his situation at Norwich.
While new boss Dean Smith does appear to be giving the 23-year-old a chance, Cantwell was frozen out under his predecessor Daniel Farke.
In total, he has amassed just eight Premier League appearances this campaign, with no goals or assists to show for it.
The Canaries are among most peoples’ favourites to be relegated, which could grant Cantwell extra incentive to seek a new challenge.
A key factor in Newcastle’s interest is likely to be his stellar debut season in the top-flight back in 2019/20.
As a youngster, he notched six goals and two assists for a struggling Norwich side, before following them down to the Championship last campaign.
Mulling over a move for Cantwell is not the only recent development for the Magpies, however, as the club have reportedly tabled another bid for Lille defender Sven Botman.
The Dutchman, believed to be Newcastle’s primary defensive target, was labelled ‘not for sale’ by the French outfit upon their first approach.
But everyone has their price, and although other targets such as Diego Carlos seem to have been explored, the Magpies can’t get away from the 21-year-old who is believed to be keen on the switch.
It remains to be seen whether Lille will entertain the improved offer, or attempt to call Newcastle’s bluff and hold out for an even greater sum.
But one thing appears clear – with Trippier through the door, plenty more are sure to follow as the club’s Saudi ownership attempt to steer clear of trouble.
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