Newcastle United are believed to be eyeing a deal for Eintracht Frankfurt defender Evan N'Dicka, with the Frenchman having starred in the club's recent Europa League final triumph over Rangers.

What's the word?

As per SportBILD, (via SportsWitness), the Magpies have 'expressed an interest' in signing the 22-year-old centre-back this summer, with the player one of a handful of stars likely to be poached following the Bundesliga outfit's recent European success.

The report suggests that the £25.2m-rated brute is the 'main candidate' to secure a move in the upcoming window, with Newcastle having reportedly sent scouts to watch the former Auxerre man in action against West Ham United earlier this month.

Eddie Howe's side will no doubt face competition for his signature, however, with Premier League rivals Manchester United also believed to be eyeing a deal.

Better than Botman

Having strengthened in January to help the club successfully - and remarkably - steer themselves away from the drop zone, it would appear that PIF are keen to bolster Howe's ranks again this summer, with defensive additions seemingly high on the priority list.

Despite the impressive form of winter arrival Dan Burn, the belief is that the northeast side are eyeing a new left-sided central defender, with the likes of Monaco man Benoit Badiashile, Lille ace Sven Botman and now N'Dicka all tipped as potential targets.

Botman, in particular, had been the name on everybody's lips in January, although their failure to secure the signing of the Dutchman could well come as a blessing in disguise, with the Frankfurt man potentially a more eye-catching recruit.

The £8.3k-per-week gem has been in sparkling form this term, averaging 4.1 clearances, 1.9 tackles and 1.5 interceptions per game in his 32 league outings, while also winning 60% of his total duels.

That record compares favourably to that of Botman, with the 22-year-old averaging better for clearances per game (4.6), although has recorded just one tackle and one interception per 90 in his 24 league games thus far.

N'Dicka also comes out on top when compared to players in his position across Europe's top five leagues, notably ranking in the top 5% for blocks and the top 6% for aerial duels won, while his aforementioned competitor ranks in just the top 35% and 34%, respectively, in those two metrics.

Dubbed "towering" by journalist Jacque Talbot, the former France U21 international is an imposing presence at 6 foot 4, with the Paris-born gem likely to not be overawed by the physicality in the Premier League.

He also appears unburdened by pressure, having proven his worth in Wednesday's showpiece victory in Seville, with Squawka's Muhammad Butt labelling him "cool, calm and composed" following his "absolutely superb" display against Giovanni van Bronckhorst's side.

That showing demonstrated just what a talent the young defender is, with Howe and co wise to push for a deal to secure his services, ahead of long-term target, Botman.

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