Real Madrid interest is surely a hammer blow for Newcastle's Firpo hopes

By Jay Williams

Newcastle United have recently been scouting Real Betis left-back Junior Firpo, according to Spanish website Sevilla ABC.

Firpo has been catching the eye this season with his dominant performances for Real Betis.

And with Newcastle desperately needing a new left-back, Firpo would be an exciting coup if they could pull it off.

But this deal is surely now dead in the water after a potential takeover collapsed, leaving the January window uncertain, as per a report by The Mirror.

And as Firpo continues to thrive for Real Betis, he is being targeted by some major clubs across Europe.

According to The Mirror, Firpo is a target for Real Madrid and Manchester City this January.

The 22-year-old has impressed in La Liga and the Europa League, racking up a tally of three goals and two assists this season.

(Photo by Quality Sport Images/Getty Images)

Firpo particularly caught the eye against Barcelona in a stunning 4-3 win, scoring and setting up another.

The Domincan Republic-born defender has also demonstrated his defensive ability.

According to Who Scored, Firpo has made 32 tackles, 28 clearances and 37 blocks in 18 games this term.

The Spain under-21 international is already one of the best full-backs in La Liga, both defensively and going forward.

This would have been a major statement from Newcastle but given their takeover doubts and Real Madrid’s interest, the Magpies will surely miss out.