---
title: "Newcastle set to challenge Valencia for Mangala"
canonical: "https://readnewcastle.com/2017/05/28/newcastle-set-challenge-valencia-mangala/"
type: "post"
language: "en-GB"
author: "Sam Hammond"
section: "Feature Writers"
published: "2017-05-28T18:53:04Z"
modified: "2017-05-28T18:53:04Z"
---

# Newcastle set to challenge Valencia for Mangala

Newcastle are set to battle it out with Valencia to sign French centre-back Eliaquim Mangala.

According to the [Manchester Evening News](https://www.manchestereveningnews.co.uk/sport/football/newcastle-transfer-list-man-city-13103820), City manager Pep Guardiola does not see him as part of his future plans.

The Magpies are reportedly ready to pay the £15m fee to bring the 26-year-old to the North East. Having performed relatively well out on loan during the 2016/17 season at Valencia, Rafa Benitez sees Mangala as the perfect centre-back to partner Jamaal Lascelles next season.

![Alex Caparros/Getty Images Sport](https://media.readnewcastle.com/readnewcastle/sites/20/2017/05/656370722.jpg)

Mangala made 69 interceptions last season and accounted a pass accuracy of 84% – the best from any player at the Spanish club.

Although it may have been a poor season for Valencia – finishing 12th in La Liga – Mangala did well, notably scoring at the Camp Nou.

The MEN report claims that the centre-back will complete a permanent move away from Manchester this summer, whether it will be to Newcastle – we can only find out this summer.