Newcastle are “in talks” with Lens about signing Abdukodir Khusanov, according to journalist Graeme Bailey.

Speaking to the Geordie Boot Boys website, Bailey said that the Magpies and Spurs are among the teams who are keen on securing the centre-back‘s signature this month:

“Newcastle are one of the clubs in talks, as are Tottenham. A beast of a player, I’m told. He fits exactly what Newcastle need. An up and coming player for not a huge amount of money. Newcastle will need to find some money to do a deal, but it will not be an earth-shattering amount. We’re talking around £25million. In terms of Premier League money, it is very little.”

“Talks are ongoing with his people. It will depend on who persuades the player. He really does have everything. He’s quick and likes a tackle. He’s the real deal, and Newcastle think he is suited to Premier League football.”

What do fans need to know about Khusanov?

The 20-year-old was born in Uzbekistan. He came through the youth ranks of Bunyodkor before he left for Belasuran outfit Energetik-BGU in March 2022.

Khusanov made his senior debut for Energetik, playing 37 games over an 18-month period prior to joining Lens on a free transfer before the start of the 2023/24 season.

The defender was a rotation option during his first year in France but he established himself as a regular starter at the beginning of September.

Newcastle face fierce competition for the player

In addition to Tottenham, it is believed that Eddie Howe’s side will have to fend off Manchester City if they want to sign Khusanov.

Fabrizio Romano has confirmed that the Premier League champions have added the Uzbek international to their list of targets for the January transfer window.

Find out who is in Newcastle United’s first-team squad for the 2024/2025 season here