Newcastle are plotting an audacious double move for French brothers Khephren and Marcus Thuram this summer, according to reports.
What’s the latest on the Thuram brothers to Newcastle?
Speculation has long since been circling as to whether this summer will be when Newcastle’s owners – the Saudi-backed private investment fund – start really splashing the cash at St James’ Park.
As per TEAMtalk, the Tynesiders want up to six new signings, with a new left-back, centre-back, attacking midfielder, striker, wide-forward and holding midfielder all on their radar.
The report suggests that the Magpies have a long-standing interest in Borussia Monchengladbach striker Marcus, and have now been watching his brother Khephren who plays as a midfielder for Nice.
Marcus’ contract expires at the end of this season, and the piece confirms Newcastle have taken full advantage of the opportunity that allows them to speak to the player about a possible move.
However, ex-German footballer Dirk Krumpelmann told ChronicleLive that Italian giants Inter Milan are “particularly interested” and “may be in the front position”.
A report for 90min suggests that Newcastle have identified Khephren as a potential target as they look to bring in midfield reinforcements.
Should Newcastle splash the cash on the Thuram brothers?
Sons of former World Cup winner Lillian, pictures of the Thuram brothers being dropped of by their famous father for French international duty went viral last week.
Marcus is the more experienced brother, with ten international appearances – including one in the 2022 World Cup final – and currently has twelve goals and three assists in 24 Bundesliga matches this campaign.
The 25-year-old has been described as a “world-class striker” by Wolfsburg sporting director Marcel Schäfer, while ex-Manchester United star Louis Saha said (via Manchester Evening News) that he “guarantees goals and assists”.
22-year-old Khephren has enjoyed an excellent season in Ligue 1, making 28 appearances for seventh-placed Nice.
The 6 foot 4 defensive midfielder made his national team debut against the Netherlands last Friday and has been described as a “diamond” by European football expert Antonio Mango for his combination of imposing physique and elegant ball-playing abilities.
Whilst being at different stages of their careers, both Thuram brothers would prove shrewd signings in priority areas for Newcastle.
With Callum Wilson’s patchy injury record, signing Marcus on a free would provide cost-effective competition to Alexander Isak and Khephren would offer a long-term improvement on Sean Longstaff.
Signing two brothers may be a very rare occurrence in football, but this double swoop would be much more than novelty business.