Report: Newcastle and Crystal Palace eye Jordon Ibe move

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Newcastle United and Crystal Palace are both weighing up moves for Jordon Ibe, according to a report from the Sunday Mirror (30/8; page 67).

The Magpies have made a quiet start to the summer window. Jeff Hendrick has been their most notable addition so far having arrived on a free transfer following his departure from Burnley.

The Sunday Mirror (30/8; page 67) reports that Steve Bruce is working with a tight budget. And thus, he is having to consider other targets who could arrive on the cheap.

According to the report, Newcastle are battling with Roy Hodgson’s men for Ibe’s signature. Like Hendrick, the 24-year-old is a free agent after leaving Bournemouth.

It is suggested that Ibe’s Premier League experience appeals to both clubs.

TBR View: Newcastle fans will surely be underwhelmed with Ibe links

Ibe is not a player who seems to have kicked on during his career. As noted by the Sunday Mirror, the Cherries paid £15 million in 2016 to sign him from Liverpool.

Unfortunately, since then, he has contributed just three goals and seven assists in the Premier League. And he only managed two substitute appearances in the top flight during his final season with Eddie Howe’s side.

Of course, on a free transfer, he may be worth rolling the dice for. If Bruce is going to be unable to spend any marquee fees during this window, then a free transfer for Ibe may prove a decent piece of business.

But there is surely no question that signing Ibe on a free is not the sort of deal that is going to capture the imagination of the Toon Army.