Newcastle now in 'pole position' to sign highly-rated Frenchman - Report

Newcastle United have set their sights on a summer move for Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram, according to Football Insider.

The report states that we are in 'pole position' to land the 6ft 4' Frenchman; who has been linked with a switch to St James' Park by more than one outlet in recent months.

We released an exclusive on the 22-year-old last June, revealing that informal talks had taken place between Newcastle and Nice over a potential €40m deal.

Fast forward a year, he's one of the top performing midfielders in Ligue 1 and has been scouted regularly by head of recruitment Steve Nickson; who The Athletic claim is a big admirer.

As a result of his performances - which have earned him a call-up to the France national squad and sparked interest from some of Europe's biggest clubs - Football Insider report that he'll cost in the region of €50m this summer.

The Mail's Craig Hope is another who has recently talked up our interest in Thuram, so he could be a real one to watch in our search for an athletic, all-action No 6.