Shields Gazette reporter Liam Kennedy doubts Newcastle United will win the race to bring Boubacar Kamara to the Premier League.
The Magpies are thought to be nearing their first signing of the transfer window, with Steve Bruce’s side finally agreeing a fee with Arsenal for the services of Joe Willock.
Newcastle’s interest in Willock comes after the former England under-21 international enjoyed a fruitful loan spell at St James’ Park last season, with the midfielder becoming the first player to score in seven consecutive Premier League outings since Alan Shearer.
However, Bruce is keen to add even more depth to the Magpies’ midfield and has submitted a bid for Marseille’s Kamara.
According to Corriere dello Sport, Newcastle face competition for the 21-year-old. The report reveals Premier League rivals Arsenal, along with Italian outfits Lazio and AC Milan, are plotting a move.
Kennedy cannot see Kamara opting for a switch to St James’ Park over his alternative options.
He told Football FanCast: “If Newcastle could land a player like that, it would be a shrewd piece of business.
“But, I’ve got to be honest, I have got grave doubts about whether Newcastle United can push through a deal for him.
“They do have a really good track record of picking players up from France but, at the moment, I have doubts about whether Kamara will end up in a black and white shirt.”