Newcastle United could make move for 24-year-old Sunderland target this summer as they look to replace Callum Wilson
Sunderland have been very busy in the summer transfer window in an attempt to bolster their squad for the inevitable relegation battle ahead. Meanwhile, Newcastle United have hit roadblock after roadblock in their attempts to add strength and depth to their squad.
Now, a report from Africa Foot has suggested the two North East clubs could be about to go up against each other in the transfer market for £22 million-rated forward Evann Guessand from OGC Nice.
The 24-year-old Ivory Coast international can play all across the front three, possessing the kind of versatility that Eddie Howe is looking for as he looks to add support for Alexander Isak in the wake of Callum Wilson's departure.
Sunderland have also been keeping an eye on Guessand as they look to build an entire team of African players. Seriously, what are they going to do when the African Cup of Nations starts in January?
Evann Guessand could be available for around £22 million
Guessand hit 13 goals and 10 assists for Nice last season from 42 outings for the French side.
Those aren't exactly prolific numbers, but the fact that he would be available for around £22 million and is keen on a move to the Premier League definitely puts him in the 'realistic' category for Newcastle after missing out on so many bigger names so far.
Eddie Howe could likely bring him up another level were he to arrive at St James' Park.
We can't see Newcastle pushing for Evann Guessand
Ultimately, though, we're taking this one with a huge pinch of salt. There's not a lot about this one that adds up for us.
While we are clearly still hunting for a new forward, and a versatile forward seems to be on the agenda, we still have some big targets in mind before we turn our attention to players in the same supermarket aisles as Sunderland.
We'll see in time, we're sure.
