Newcastle are reportedly leading the race to sign West Ham United transfer target Memphis Depay in January.
That’s according to a report from Spanish publication Sport who claim that Newcastle boss Eddie Howe is in pole position to bring the 28-year-old forward to St James’ Park.
Now that will represent a big problem for West Ham manager David Moyes. The Scot is thought to be keen to bring Depay to the London Stadium.
Both the Hammers and the Magpies desperately need to bolster their respective attacking ranks this winter.
Depay is someone who would be an incredible addition for either side in my opinion. It seems as though the East London outfit could be fighting a losing battle though…
West Ham have no chance with Newcastle in pole position to sign Depay in January
Sport reckon that the Toon lead the race for Depay’s signature, although it’s unclear at the moment as to whether he will leave Barcelona in January for a nominal fee or in the summer on a free.
It will be such a shame if the Hammers miss out to Newcastle on the former Manchester United man, he really is an exceptional talent.
Depay bagged 13 goals and two assists in 38 games for Barca last season (Transfermarkt).
The Dutch ace is an enigmatic, precocious talent and on his day he is unplayable. Depay is incredibly strong as well and would be ideally suited to leading the line on his own for the Hammers.
The Barcelona attacker has been described as a player with ‘unreal skill’ by The Metro.
Sure, he has displayed some attitude problems in the past but a fresh start at a new club might just be exactly what he needs to help him rediscover his best form.
And with his Barcelona contract set to expire in the summer of 2023, the La Liga giants could sell him for just €5 million (£4 million) in January (AS).
That would represent unbelievable value for a player with Depay’s class.
Unfortunately for West Ham, I really don’t see how we have any chance whatsoever of signing him, with Newcastle now leading the race for Depay’s signature.
Read also:
Losing 21-year-old in January will be a double whammy for Moyes, but it’s his own fault
Jesse Lingard spills the beans and his comments will absolutely baffle West Ham fans