Newcastle and Tottenham blow: Soon-to-be free agent set to sign new contract

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Newcastle and Tottenham have been dealt a blow in their reported pursuit of Ousmane Dembele. That is, because Foot Mercato report the Frenchman has decided to sign a new deal with Barcelona, and remain at the Nou Camp.

Dembele, 24, was expected to be one of the more-intriguing options on the market. Once costing well over £100million, the 2018 World Cup winner is out of contract at the end of the season. Xavi wants him to stay at Barca.

Now, Foot Mercato claim that he will do so. That is, despite offers from Bayern and Newcastle according to the report. Mundo Deportivo reported earlier this month that Tottenham were showing interest in the ex-Dortmund ace.

Having overcome knee and hamstring injuries this season, Xavi has thrown his faith behind Dembele – starting him for the last three La Liga matches. Indeed, he played 90 minutes in a 1-1 draw with Sevilla on Tuesday night.

Newcastle and Tottenham blow: Dembele set to stay at Barcelona

It is a blow for both clubs. Newcastle, because they need some magic from somewhere if they are to stay in the Premier League. Would Dembele have joined a side in danger of going down? The chances are he might not.

Meanwhile, Tottenham might have been an attractive January move for Dembele. Fighting for the top four under Antonio Conte. But with Xavi making it clear he wants to keep Dembele, staying at Barcelona is his best move.