An update has emerged on French defender Lucas Digne, regarding Newcastle United's interest in his services.

What's the talk?

Journalist Luke Edwards has claimed that the Everton full-back is on the Magpies' radar this month as Eddie Howe goes in search of reinforcements for his squad.

He Tweeted: "Can’t see them signing Botman and Carlos. Digne is a target I’ve had that confirmed but there is bound to be competition."

In his article for The Telegraph, Edwards named Digne and Southampton's Romain Perraud as two players the club are looking at as they attempt to bring in competition for Jamal Lewis at left-back.

He then provided another update on the French defender on Wednesday lunchtime, saying:

"A centre back and a striker seem to be where most of the remaining money will be spent at #nufc this month. A loan with option to buy in the summer for Lucas Digne under discussion. Another CB permanent or loan on the to do list. Another CM probably the least pressing requirement."

Excitement

This claim from the reporter will surely leave Newcastle fans feeling excited as Digne could be a terrific addition to the side. He is adamant that there is interest from the Magpies in the Frenchman's services and that brings with it the exciting prospect of the club making a genuine move for him in the coming weeks.

Digne is a proven Premier League performer who could come in and be a major upgrade on Lewis and Matt Ritchie on the left side of defence. In his three full league campaigns for the Toffees to date, he has averaged a WhoScored rating of 7.08 or higher - scoring four goals and providing 18 assists in that time.

This season, Ritchie and Lewis have averaged scores of 6.43 and 6.33 respectively. Neither of them have been able to consistently deliver high-quality performances on the pitch and that is why the Everton man could be a vital signing for Howe, as his displays for the Blues show that he is capable of doing that at Premier League level - proving it over the course of three years.

Therefore, Magpies fans will be able to get excited by the thought of Digne playing for the club in the second half of the campaign. He could come in and instantly be a top performer for the side as he is accustomed to playing in the English top-flight and would not need an adaptation period.

With Kieran Trippier reportedly closing in on a transfer to St. James' Park, Newcastle could find themselves with an excellent full-back pairing come the end of the month. However, it is down to Howe and Nick Hammond to ensure that they are able to get both deals over the line.

AND in other news, Howe can brutally axe £40k-p/w NUFC dud by signing "deceptive" gem who's a "nightmare"...