Premier League side Newcastle United have agreed to personal terms with young defender Sikou Niakate but are struggling to agree on a fee with his club Valenciennes, according to a report on Get French Football News.
The 19-year-old is valued at €3 million by the French Ligue 2 side and the Magpies fear that they may not be able to agree on a fee before the transfer window slams shut tomorrow evening.
The player is keen to make the move to St James’ Park and has already agreed on a contract with the side.
The centre-back played 24 times in the second tier of French football last season and can also operate in left-back.
The defender only joined Valenciennes in November last year but he has been identified as a primary target by Newcastle boss Rafa Benitez, who is eager to strengthen his squad before tomorrow’s deadline.
The Magpies completed the loan signing of Salomon Rondon and will be hoping to come to an agreement for the signature of Niakate soon.
