€12m defender ‘fully focused’ despite Newcastle making ‘official enquiries’

According to reports, Mitchel Bakker remains ‘fully focused’ on Bayer Leverkusen even with there being ongoing interest in him from Newcastle United.

The Magpies are keen to sign a new left-back before the transfer window closes on Monday. They have been linked with Bakker and Aston Villa’s Matt Targett. 

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Bakker signed for Bayer Leverkusen last year. He has previously had spells at Ajax and PSG.

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The 21-year-old has played 16 times for Leverkusen across all competitions this season. He is also a U21 international for the Netherlands.

De Telegraaf (via Sport Witness) are reporting that Bakker is currently ‘fully focused’ on Leverkusen.

The player has ‘been informed’ that Newcastle have made ‘official enquiries’ for him. They add that he is valued at around €12m.

It is also stated that Bakker is ‘more than willing’ to hold talks with Newcastle as long as Leverksuen’s asking price is met.

Speaking on Friday, Eddie Howe revealed that Newcastle are close to making their third signing of the January transfer window.

“There’s nothing on individual players but we are hopeful we are getting close to completing a transfer,” Howe said.

“Fingers crossed we’re close to getting one over the