The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia’s (KSA) Public Investment Fund (PIF) are reportedly now in talks to sign Moses Simon for Newcastle United.
The Lowdown: Showcasing his talent
Simon recently showcased what he is all about at the African Cup of Nations (AFCON) with Nigeria, with the country’s media describing him as the ‘star’ of their team, as he bagged a goal and assist in the tournament.
At club level, he plays for Ligue 1 side Nantes, and has scored twice and made a further six assists in the division so far this season.
In a recent interview, Belgian defender Jules Van Cleemput claimed that Simon has made him suffer the most out of any player in a game, describing him as ‘fast’ and a ‘real nightmare’ (RTBF via Pulse Sports).
The Latest: Offer made
As per Own Goal Nigeria, the St. James’ Park faithful have now made Simon their ‘prime target’ for the summer transfer window, and he will cost in the region of £20m.
They are currently ‘locked in talks’ with Nantes over a potential deal, who are ‘open’ to letting him leave after blocking a move to Leeds United in January.
The North East club have already offered him a salary of £100,000-per-week, which has put them in the ‘driving seat’ to sign the winger, and PIF have apparently been on his trail ‘for a while’.
They tried but failed to sign him for Saudi club Al Nassr, and want to move again to sign him this summer, this time for the Tyneside outfit.
The Verdict: Get it done
With a total of 61 goals and 51 assists for club and country combined over the course of his career so far, Simon would add another threat to the Magpies’ attack with his pace and trickery, and could combine well with fellow wide man Allan Saint-Maximin.
He is at a good age at 26, and the numbers quoted should not hurt PIF’s pockets too much.
Nonetheless, so long as they can avoid relegation from the Premier League, Simon is a player that can very quickly become another fan favourite for the Toon Army.
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