Report: Newcastle eye £11m Frenchman who only joined PL rival last year

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Newcastle United are interested in signing Southampton defender Romain Perraud with Eddie Howe looking for a new left-back in the January transfer window, according to a report from The Telegraph.

The Magpies are certainly a contender to be the busiest Premier League side this month. Of course, it is their first window since the club was taken over. And they are one of four sides starting to get somewhat cut adrift at the bottom of the table.

They have been linked with a host of names, including four stars from Arsenal. But The Telegraph adds that several other players from various top-flight rivals are on their radar.

And interestingly, one of those who is being monitored by the Magpies is Perraud. The Frenchman only moved to Southampton in the summer, costing the club around £11 million (Hampshire Live).

The Telegraph notes that Newcastle were keen on the 24-year-old during the previous window. However, Steve Bruce was told that they did not have the funds to bring him to St James’ Park.

Romain Perraud yet to shine at Southampton, but Newcastle move seems unlikely

It has been a frustrating start to life with the Saints for Perraud. He has been an unused substitute 11 times in the Premier League. And he is yet to feature in three league games on the spin.

Instead, Ralph Hasenhuttl has often opted for Kyle Walker-Peters in the left-back role.

However, the defender was superb before his move. He provided seven assists in Ligue 1 last term, while he also scored three times.

Hasenhuttl labelled his form last season ‘fantastic’. And he suggested that he was perfect for Southampton. So it is hard to see Newcastle having much joy in attempting to lure him away.

But that may not stop the Magpies for having a go.