Newcastle frighten familiar Ligue 1 suitor in battle for Lens midfield force Seko Fofana

Newcastle United have made it a priority to target the signing of Lens midfielder Seko Fofana this summer, according to a report.

Fofana is also a target for Lyon, the club from whom Newcastle took Bruno Guimaraes in January. Now, they could disappoint the Ligue 1 outfit further by pairing him with someone they also admire in the shape of the Lens man.

According to Le10 Sport, Newcastle are a significant threat to Lyon when it comes to the battle for Fofana. Although Lyon want to act quick to complete a deal, they are wary of the competition.

In that regard, one of the alternative bidders for Fofana is Newcastle United. The Premier League side will be looking to strengthen further after climbing to an 11th-place finish by the end of this season.

The appointment of Eddie Howe was one key factor in their rise away from a relegation battle. Perhaps the most significant, though, was their ability to pay for prime targets in the January transfer window thanks to their new, Saudi owners.

Along with Guimaraes, Newcastle spent on Kieran Trippier, Dan Burn and Chris Wood, while adding Matt Targett on loan.

In the summer, Newcastle will be looking to make smart additions to their squad again. They could pretty much afford anyone they like, if they can convince them, but are likely to take a more realistic approach again.

However, the calibre of player they can attract is increasing. Fofana has earned plenty of admirers from his performances in Ligue 1 over the past couple of seasons.

The former Udinese midfielder has made 73 appearances in all competitions for Lens. From them, he has scored 12 goals and assisted six more.

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