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Newcastle reviving interest in this out of favour Leicester star would nicely play into the hands of Steve Bruce

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Why Newcastle United should go for Nampalys Mendy in January

Back in 2014, a report from the Chronicle Live had claimed Newcastle United were interested in Nampalys Mendy, who was then plying his trade for OGC Nice.

Nampalys Mendy, 27, joined Leicester City from OGC Nice in the summer of 2016 as a replacement for N’Golo Kante, who had signed for Chelsea. But the defensive midfielder’s Premier League journey hasn’t been great as he has managed just 43 appearances for Leicester across all competitions in four seasons.

The Frenchman has struggled to get into Brendan Rodgers’ first-team this season, managing just one league appearances. With the midfielder lacking regular game time, Mendy could leave the Foxes in January if he is guaranteed first-team football elsewhere.

With that in mind, Newcastle United must rekindle their interest in Mendy when the winter transfer market starts. Despite the 1-0 victory over Manchester United before the international break, Newcastle boss Steve Bruce’s job continues to be in threat.

Bruce, who replaced Rafael Benitez at St. James Park in the summer, has won just twice in the Premier League this term. His team is lacking goals at the moments, whilst there aren’t midfielders available that can control the tempo of games.

Isaac Hayden had started the season well before unnecessarily getting himself sent off in the 5-0 defeat to Leicester City last month. Jonjo Shelvey has been in and out of the team but Sean Longstaff has taken his chances well after breaking under Benitez in the second half of last season.

Matty Longstaff, who scored the winner against Manchester United on his debut, is still far from securing his place in the team. The Magpies clearly have room for improvement in midfield and Nampalys Mendy would definitely enhance Bruce’s squad.

Newcastle have lacked a tenacious, gritty ball-winner since allowing Mohamed Diame to leave the club on a free transfer in the summer. Well, Mendy could come to St. James’ Park as Diame’s replacement.

Ngolo Kante of Chelsea

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Mendy is one of the most talented holding midfielders in the game and he just needs a manager to show faith in him. Bruce could be that man, getting the best out of a player who was tipped as the next big thing following his impressive early years in Ligue 1.

The French midfielder can read the game well and can cover a lot of ground at the centre of the park. He is a reliable presence in midfield and can make some timely interceptions for his side.

Verdict

To put things into perspective, a deal for Mendy, who is out of favour under Rodgers at Leicester, is exceptional at breaking down the rhythm of the opposition.

He would be a real coup for Newcastle United during the mid-season transfer window.