Kevin Danois is the latest player to be linked with Newcastle United, as Eddie Howe eyes midfield reinforcements in January.
It has been reported that Newcastle United want to sign a centre-midfielder in January, despite bringing in Jacob Ramsey during the summer.
He could soon have even more competition at St James’ Park, as Newcastle United eye Kees Smit from AZ Alkmaar. The 19-year-old is the Magpies’ top target, but a deal looks difficult to do in January.
That is why the club are discussing alternatives, with Auxerre midfielder Kevin Danois on Newcastle United’s radar too.
The Frenchman could move up Eddie Howe’s list of targets if Smit proves to be unattainable, but it remains to be seen how much he will cost.
What a strike this is! Toon fans, what do you think about Newcastle’s newest target Kevin Danois?
Would he be a better signing than Kees Smit?
Bournemouth tried to sign Kevin Danois in the summer
However, Newcastle United have at least received a hint regarding Danois’ potential price tag courtesy of Bournemouth.
That is because the Cherries were linked with signing the 21-year-old in the summer, and actually made a move to bring him to the Vitality Stadium.
Foot Mercato reported in May 2025 that Bournemouth offered £9.6million to sign him from Auxerre. However, the offer was rejected by the Ligue 1 side.
They opted to keep Danois, with the youngster actually signing a new contract with the French club in October.
Pretend you’re Newcastle United’s sporting director, where are you spending straight away?
Ross Wilson has given the green light to January signings at Newcastle United…
Danois’ new deal runs until 2029, which puts Auxerre in a position of strength when it comes to his value. They already wanted more than £10million for him in the summer, and will suddenly be able to demand even more following the contract extension.
Newcastle United on the right path targeting Kevin Danois
Bournemouth missing out on Danois could give Newcastle United the chance to swoop in.
That could prove to be great news for Eddie Howe, who will be able to take heart from the fact that his former club have also been tracking Danois.
When it comes to recruitment from foreign markets, Bournemouth’s record is exceptional. So many of their signings have succeeded in the Premier League, with the likes of Dean Huijsen and Illia Zabarnyi completing big money moves to Real Madrid and PSG respectively.
They are the kind of signings that Newcastle United want to make, with Ross Wilson implementing a new strategy.
A deal for a player like Danois would be a step in a new direction for the Magpies, as they aim to take a few more risks on players with high potential from further afield.