Newcastle chasing Van der Wiel after Debuchy deal breaks down
Newcastle United will turn to Ajax defender Gregory Van der Wiel after seeing their pursuit of Mathieu Debuchy ended by Lille president Michel Seydoux the Evening Chronicle reports.
Magpies officials were under the impression they’d agreed a fee and personal terms for the 27-year-old full back who has been a long-term target for manager Alan Pardew.
Debuchy is reportedly keen to make the move to St James’ Park to link up with fellow France international Yohan Cabaye but could now be forced to remain at the Grand Stade Lille Métropole.
Seydoux is now claiming that he will be staying at the French club saying that Newcastle failed to meet their asking price, which is thought to be £8m.
He said: “I have decided that Debuchy will remain at Lille. The offer from Newcastle is definitely not the value of the player.
“As we significant challenges in August we must move on.
“Any offer for Debuchy should be consistent and commensurate with his replacement.
“As the conditions are not met it is my duty to make a decision.”
Pardew is now ready to switch his attentions to Holland international Van der Wiel with the unhappy defender said to be keen on the idea of move to Tyneside.
The 24-year-old fits into the North East giant’s current blueprint and with his contract at the Amsterdam Arena expiring next year he could be picked up for a cut price fee.
He is rumoured to be angry with the Amsterdammers after they failed to offer him a new deal saying: “When you go on to celebrate your 24th birthday, you expect a nice, lucrative contract from your club.
“That certainly will keep you happy, but it seems unlikely that I would be hearing any good offer from the club now.
“Playing at Ajax was always my dream, but now the club is making life difficult for me.
“Unfortunately, the policy of the club is not benefiting their youth players. I am always surprised why the Ajax youth players receive smaller salaries as compared to the players who come from elsewhere.”
