Newcastle United are believed to still be interested in signing Brighton and Hove Albion forward, Leandro Trossard, this month, as manager Eddie Howe looks to strengthen his attacking ranks.

What's the word?

According to 90min, the 28-year-old's future at the Amex remains 'in doubt' despite the Belgium international having seen his contract extended by a further 12 months, with the Magpies seemingly ready to pounce with an offer if a move does appear 'attainable'.

The report suggests that sporting director Dan Ashworth - who previously worked at the south coast outfit - is keen on a reunion with the former Genk man at St James' Park, albeit with Roberto De Zerbi's side showing 'few signs' that they are willing to sell at present.

The piece also adds that while the player himself is said to be 'considering his options' amid interest from the Tynesiders - as well as fellow Premier League side Chelsea - the 24-cap dynamo will not push for an exit.

This follows a previous report from Newcastle Echo back in October that revealed the club's interest, with Trossard said to be valued at around £30m.

Repeat Burn masterclass

Howe and co have already raided Brighton in recent times to secure the services of towering defender, Dan Burn, with the hope being that the arrival of Trossard can prove just as fruitful as his former teammate's capture.

In the case of the Englishman, the 30-year-old has thrived at his boyhood club since signing from the Seagulls on a £13m deal back in January 2022, having started the final 16 games of last season as the Magpies comfortably steered themselves away from danger.

The £35k-per-week colossus has proven just as influential this time around after starting 17 out of 18 top-flight games in the current campaign, helping to form part of a backline that has shipped just 11 league goals thus far.

The Blyth-born left-back has made a "ridiculous impact" since joining Howe's side - according to pundit Frank McAvennie - having proven an "absolute steal" due to his consistency and dogged defensive approach, showcased by the fact that he ranks in the top 8% in Europe for aerial duels won among those in his position.

To be able to repeat that masterclass with the addition of Trossard could well help the top-four hopefuls maintain their current charge towards Champions League qualification, with the 5 foot 7 machine having enjoyed a stunning start to the campaign thus far.

The winger has been in "unreal" form in recent times, according to pundit Rio Ferdinand, having scored seven goals and provided three assists in his 16 league outings, proving himself something of a man for the big occasion after netting against the likes of Manchester City, Liverpool and Chelsea thus far.

The diminutive ace also offers a real creative spark as he ranks within the top 20 players in the division for chances created per game (1.56), while also ranking joint-top for goal-ending carries (three) to illustrate both his direct approach and dribbling prowess.

An effective and clinical presence in attack, Trossard could well emulate the aforementioned Burn in making an instant impact in Howe's side, were he to sign in the coming weeks.