Newcastle United transfer rumours as Yannick Carrasco links reemerge as centre-back linked

Your Newcastle United transfer round-up for Thursday, May 19.

Atletico Madrid midfielder Yannick Carrasco remains a Newcastle target, according to Goal. Faint rumours following the £300million takeover linked the 28-year-old with a move to Tyneside - as was the case with most players in world football.

The Belgian is a former teammate of Kieran Trippier and was integral to the La Liga title victory in 2020-21. PIF understand the significance of making a statement signing and luring Carrasco from the Spanish giants could fit the bill.

Chris Wood expected to be fit for Newcastle United clash at Burnley as Eddie Howe issues warning

With two years on his contract, Atleti may be tempted to cash in before the 28-year-old’s value depreciates.

Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo claim Newcastle will attempt to sign Jules Kounde after seeing a €70million bid rejected in January. Chelsea are also linked with the 23-year-old, who has nine caps for France.

One of the biggest transfer sagas of the window was the Magpies’ pursuit of Kounde’s centre-back partner Diego Carlos. Reports in England listed the Brazilian and Lille’s Sten Botman as the top two defensive targets but Newcastle had to settle for Dan Burn.

However, this latest piece names Kounde as a player Newcastle tried to sign. Signing the 23-year-old - regarded as one of Europe’s best young defenders - would have been an astonishing coup considering United's predicament in January.

Jeunes Footeux have named Maxence Lacroix as a potential Newcastle target. The hot-tempered centre-back has received three red cards in the Bundesliga this season - more than any other player.

Despite this, Lacroix remains a target for several European clubs, with West Ham the main Premier League