West Ham’s capture of Dimitri Payet and Giannelli Imbula’s imminent departure from the Stade Velodrome could have inadvertently scuppered Newcastle’s chances of landing French attacker Florian Thauvin.
Rumours of players departing from Marseille have filled the backpages of newspapers across Europe over the past two weeks, as the French outfit were desperate to generate funds before the end of the month.
However, following Payet and Imbula’s departures, Marseille are no longer needing to sell more players, making it increasingly difficult for the Magpies to reach an agreement – though McClaren is still expected to pursue the Frenchman.
According to French news outlet Le 10 Sport, Payet’s move to Upton Park has ruled out Thauvin’s exit this summer.
“Dimitri Payet’s exit has sealed Florian Thauvin’s future in La Provence. President Vicente Labrune has also received a positive message stating the player doesn’t want to leave,” the report concludes.
Newcastle have been long term admirers of the 22-year-old – who netted five times and assisted four last campaign – but currently face missing out on him.
The Geordie faithful are beginning to become unsettled by the lack of progress on the transfer front, but several news outlets suggest next week could be when the breakthrough occurs.
