Newcastle have been monitoring the progress of young Sochaux defender Jerome Onguene in recent weeks, according to a report in the Daily Mail.
Fellow Premier League club Arsenal are also said to be watching the 18-year-old, and both clubs are preparing January bids.
Standing at 6’3 tall, Onguene was born in Cameroon but has swayed towards representing France at U-18 level. He predominantly plays as a centre-back, but offers cover at right-back too.
The 18-year-old featured in the much talked about Sochaux U-18 side that won the French youth cup, known as the Coupe Gambardella.
His dominant aerial ability and physical prowess has earned him a multitude of admirers across Europe, but the Magpies and the Gunners are thought to be leading the race.
Onguene could leave the French outfit for as little as £2m in January, and with Mike Williamson reportedly on his way out of Tyneside, he could bring a much-needed freshness to Newcastle’s defensive woes.
