Newcastle United accelerate £43m pursuit of Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli
Newcastle United are stepping up their efforts to sign Real Betis winger Abde Ezzalzouli in a £43m deal as they look to rebuild their depleted squad.
The Magpies have emerged as frontrunners for the 24-year-old Moroccan international, moving ahead of Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur.
Talks have already taken place between the Tyneside club and representatives for the former Barcelona academy graduate.
The forward is understood to be highly receptive to a move to England this summer.
The intensity and ambition of English football is an attractive next move for his career.
Rebuilding the Tyneside ranks
Newcastle face mounting pressure to strengthen their attacking options following a highly challenging transfer window.
Anthony Gordon recently departed for Barcelona in a £69m deal, while Italian midfielder Sandro Tonali has also left St James’ Park.
Further compounding matters, influential playmaker Bruno Guimaraes is reportedly nearing a switch to Arsenal.
While the North East outfit have invested heavily in promising youngsters, manager Eddie Howe desperately requires established top-flight pedigree.
Several teenage prospects have arrived, including Bazoumana Toure and Ewen Jaouen, but a ready-made attacking star remains the immediate priority.
Breakthrough campaign in Spain
Ezzalzouli enjoyed a stellar campaign for his Spanish employers last season, acting as a catalyst for their Champions League qualification.
The lightning-fast attacker registered an impressive 15 goals and 10 assists across all competitions.
His frightening pace and astute decision-making in the final third have made him one of Europe’s most sought-after commodities.
Although the La Liga side are reluctant to lose their prized asset, a fee in the region of €50m is expected to formally secure his signature.