Lille defender moves a step closer to Newcastle switch

Mathieu Debuchy is a step closer to leaving Lille for Newcastle United after the French club identified a number of potential replacements for the right-back.

The Mastiffs are coping with Debuchy’s declaration that he wants to leave the Grand Stade Lille Métropole to team up with his good friend Yohan Cabaye.

Boss Rudi Garcia said he understands Debuchy’s wish to leave and President Michel Seydoux added that he will only let Debuchy leave once they have signed a replacement.

According to reports in France, Lille have identified French U19 international Djibril Sidibé – a right-back who can also play as a defensive midfielder. Sidibé currently ploys his trade at Ligue 2 side Troyes and will probably need time to settle into his new top flight surroundings.

The alternative is Atletico Madrid’s Portuguese defender Sílvio Manuel Pereira. A loan deal for the 24-year is a possibility and his experience will allow Sidibé to settle in.

Today’s national papers here in England report that Toon will complete a deal for Debuchy by early next week. After a few weeks of talking, it looks like the saga is reaching it’s end game.

Alan Pardew identified Debuchy as a transfer target well before Euro 2012, and Cabaye himself confirmed that he has spoken to his good friend about joining him at NUFC.

Current first team right-back Danny Simpson is currently attracting interest from Fulham and Reading.

(via / @NUFC_Stats)