‘Plan B’ – Newcastle United Targeted Teen Talent On Lille’s Radar | OneFootball

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Newcastle United target Gabriel Mec has been marked down as a ‘plan B’ for French side Lille this summer.

The 18-year-old has already become a regular presence for Brazilian outfit Gremio and tongues are wagging about the teenager’s potential.

Although naturally an attacking midfielder, Mec is also capable of operating on either flank, adding another layer to his flexibility that managers can make use of.

His current contract is due to expire next year, though Gremio are already on the verge of an extension in an attempt to strengthen their position amid mounting European attention.

Mec though is a player Gremio could well receive offers for even if he is locked down on a longer contract.

The chase for the Brazilian began even before his senior debut, with both Chelsea and Manchester United attempting to secure his signature two years ago.

Newcastle were namechecked as keen on signing Mec earlier this month and the Magpies are admirers of his talents.

The race could become even more crowded as, according to Spanish journalist Eduardo Burgos, Lille could also enter the pursuit of the youngster.

Lille’s primary target has been Flamengo star Ryan Roberto, though negotiations have stalled because of issues surrounding the player’s agents, forcing the club to explore alternative solutions.

It is suggested that Lille see Mec as their ‘plan B’ in the event they cannot sign Roberto.

Gremio are claimed to want €20m for him and Lille may believe, given his growing reputation, that that is a price worth paying.

What financial firepower Newcastle will have to deploy remains to be seen, with no European football likely at St James’ Park next season.

The Magpies are tipped to part with one or two of their top players to help to balance the books.

Mec though could well view Newcastle as a sensible first step into Europe and would fit the bill for the Magpies in terms of being someone with significant development potential and resale value.

The promising talent has scored once in Brazil’s Serie A this season, scoring the only goal in a 1-0 win over Coritiba.