Real Madrid have emerged as surprise suitors for Newcastle United midfielder Moussa Sissoko, who has been linked to several Premier League clubs.
The 26-year-old France international is expected to leave St James’ Park this summer following Newcastle’s shock relegation to the Championship.
As The Sun reports, Arsenal have been linked with Sissoko, as have Everton and Juventus and now the European champions are poised to join the race.
His return of 12 goals of 133 games for the Magpies is modest, but a couple of eye-catching performances at Euro 2016 have prompted Newcastle to slap a huge £35m price tag on the inconsistent star – fee according to The Sun.
But The Chronicle understands that Madrid may have found a way around Newcastle’s lofty valuation as they intend to offer a player in part-exchange.
United boss Rafael Benitez managed at Real last season and might be able to pluck an unknown talent who could aid Newcastle’s promotion campaign.
The Sun understands that Real’s interest in Sissoko stems from their failure to land Andre Gomes, who yesterday moved to arch rivals Barcelona from Benfica.
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