Newcastle United eyeing 'really athletic' midfielder if Kees Smit gamble doesn't come off in January

Kees Smith is reportedly Newcastle United's priority transfer target in January, with the Magpies hoping a move in January will gazump many other clubs likely waiting until the summer to make their move for the AZ Alkmaar midfielder.

The 19-year-old is being strongly rumoured to be a target for Newcastle, but many clubs are eyeing the talented Dutchman, and even if Newcastle do launch a bid in January to head off other clubs, there's no guarantee that a deal can be reached, and Smit himself may want to wait until the summer to assess his options.

Newcastle are clearly aware of this, and a report today suggested that Eddie Howe and Ross Wilson also have Leicester City's Bilal El Khannouss on their radar as a potential back-up plan.

Equally, they aren't content with just two potential options, as Craig Hope has thrown another name into the mix.

Craig Hope believes Newcastle have their eye on Auxerre midfielder Kevin Danois

It's becoming increasingly apparent that a young midfielder is high on Newcastle's priority list, and it seems that Auxerre midfielder Kevin Danois is also on the shortlist, according to Hope.

“It’s an Auxerre midfielder, 21-years-old, called Kevin Danois.

“If they can’t get Kees Smit, Danois is one they could pivot to. 21-year-old, playing for Auxerre, France Under-21 international.

"Really athletic, good on the ball. That’s the profile of player they are looking for. So there you go guys, Kevin Danois.”

Kevin Danois isn't getting us excited just yet

This season, Danois has managed just one goal and no assists in 14 Ligue 1 outings, which doesn't exactly stand out when going up against Smit and El Khannouss, but that doesn't mean he wouldn't be a good addition.

Our scouting teams have access to a lot more data than we do, and if he's appearing high on their list, then he's clearly doing something right.

Next month is going to be very interesting to see if Wilson is going to make a move to bring in a new midfielder, and indeed, what that means for the current crop.