Newcastle sign Eibar centre-back Florian Lejeune in £8.7million deal after triggering release clause
The former Manchester City defender will link up with Rafa Benitez and his squad next month
NEWCASTLE are set to sign Florian Lejeune for £8.7million after triggering his release clause, according to reports.
The Eibar centre-back will link up with Rafa Benitez and his squad next month as they prepare for their first season back in the Premier League under the Spaniard.
are reporting the Championship winners activated the clause in his contract to bring him to the club.
The former Manchester City star was also wanted by both Arsenal and Tottenham.
Lejeune would be Newcastle's second summer signing after completing a deal for Chelsea star Christian Atsu.
The Toon took up the £6.2million option to buy the winger after his season-long loan at St James’ Park.
Atsu, 25, played a huge role in helping Newcastle to bounce back from the Championship at the first attempt.
The Ghanaian joined Chelsea from Porto four years ago.
However, he has failed to make a single first-team appearance for them.
Atsu has made 35 appearances for the Magpies this season.
Benitez will ship out THREE keepers to finance a new bid to take Pepe Reina to Newcastle.
The Toon boss plans to sell Dutchman Tim Krul and Belgian Matz Sels to raise funds.
England hopeful Freddie Woodman, 20, will also be allowed out on loan to help his progress.
Tammy Abraham will listen to offers from Brighton before signing on loan from Chelsea.
The striker thrived at Bristol City this year on loan where he banged in 26 goals in all competitions as the two promoted clubs battle for his signature.