Newcastle are reportedly considering a deal to sign Moises Caicedo following the injury to Jonjo Shelvey, according to TalkSport reporter Alex Crook.
Shelvey is expected to be out for six to eight weeks with a calf injury, in a blow to Eddie Howe.
The Magpies are third in the Premier League after a flying start to the season and may be set to strengthen their squad to boost their bid for a European spot.
Caicedo, 21, has been the subject of interest from a number of clubs including Liverpool, but it now seems Newcastle are monitoring his situation with a view to a move.
Speaking on TalkSport, Crook claimed that Newcastle and Chelsea are both interested in the player, who will come with a huge price tag.
“Newcastle have been linked in one or two places with Moises Caicedo, the Brighton midfielder, so too have Chelsea.
“My sources at the Amex are telling me no bids have been received as yet and it would take a mega-money offer.”
TIF Thoughts on Caicedo and Newcastle…
Given that Shelvey has only made five appearances this season, with Bruno Guimaraes, Joe Willock and Joelinton all ahead of him in the pecking order, Newcastle are unlikely to panic and dip into the market as a direct result of the injury – though they are now short of backup and could be sweating on the fitness of their regulars.
However, Newcastle could secure themselves a huge talent in Caicedo, whilst also weakening a Premier League rival.
The 21-year-old looks a fantastic prospect, and ranked in the top 20% of midfielders for tackles and blocks prior to this weekend – and could be a quality long-term investment if bought for the right price.
It does appear Brighton are reluctant to sell one of their finest talents, so any bid would have to be substantial, and whether or not Newcastle will break the bank for him in January, we do think a midfielder is needed due to their lack of depth in that position.