10 January 2023 , 11:53
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Newcastle United have launched a sensational bid for Borussia Dortmund wonderkid Youssoufa Moukoko.
The Magpies have spent heavily over the last year following their takeover by Saudi-based Public Investment Fund. Alexander Isak became the club’s record signing in the summer having arrived from Real Sociedad but injury issues have limited his contributions at St James’ Park.
That could lead to Newcastle investing further in their front-line and they are now apparently targeting Dortmund star Moukoko with a huge contract offer, and hope to beat off competition from Barcelona and Chelsea. As per the Evening Standard, the Magpies are set to offer him a mega-money contract with his current deal with the German giants set to expire this summer.
They could reportedly make him the highest earner at the club with an offer of £150k-per-week. Newcastle could face competition as they attempt to seal his services with Barcelona and Chelsea also apparently interested.
The Catalans have regularly exploited the free agent market over the past couple of years due to their precarious financial situation and could be set to do that again with Moukouko. Meanwhile, Chelsea are noted as long-term admirers of the 18-year-old.
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The youngster is a product of the Dortmund academy and he has gone on to make 59 appearances for the first team, scoring 11 goals. His performances for the German giants have also earned him international recognition having made two appearances for Die Mannschaft at last year’s World Cup in Qatar.
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His former teammate Erling Haaland has already given praise of the young forward. Speaking after Moukouko’s debut, the Norwegian said: "I'm really happy for Youssoufa.
“I'd really like to play with him sometime. I think he's one of the biggest talents in the world right now. He's only 16 years and one day old, and he's playing fantastically. He has a great career ahead of him.
Haaland continued his praise at the end of that season. "[Youssoufa] is very powerful and skillful. He is already at one of the top clubs for improving his game. The club gives you a chance to play. It does not matter what age you are,” the now Manchester City star claimed.
Away from Newcastle, Barcelona and Chelsea, Moukouko has a number of other admirers. Manchester United have been linked with a swoop for him and are currently on the look-out for a new forward but they appear likely to welcome a stop-gap option in the form of Wout Weghorst.
Liverpool have also been credited with an interest but have already spent heavily on Darwin Nunez and Cody Gakpo so a move appears unlikely at this stage.