Here is the Newcastle United transfer rumours and gossip on Thursday, December 22.
Newcastle United fall behind rivals in race for France star Adrien Rabiot
Newcastle United have reportedly fallen behind Premier League rivals Tottenham Hotspur for the signature of French international and Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot.
The 27-year-old, who is also on the radar of Arsenal and Liverpool, was part of the France squad that finished runners-up to Argentina in Qatar last weekend in the World Cup final and is expected to leave Turin next month with his contract winding down.
According to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Spurs and Antonio Conte are leading the race for Rabiot's services with Juventus only wanting a reported £12 million - which would be incredible value for such a quality player.
It's also believed the Magpies will be battling Bayern Munich, Barcelona and Rabiot's former club Paris Saint-Germain for the midfielder, as they all reportedly hold interest in him.
Newcastle United 'ready to splash £20m' on Barcelona star in January
Newcastle United are reportedly ready to spend £20 million to bring Barcelona and Netherlands winger Memphis Depay to St. James' Park next month.
According to Spanish outlet Mundo Deportivo, the star's contract is set to run out in the summer and the Spanish giants could look to quickly cash in on the 28-year-old.
The former Manchester United man has made 86 appearances for the Dutch national team, but has found the net just once for Barca this season after a consistent thigh injury has seen him lose out on playing time.
However, Mundo Deportivo continues to say that one problem that could arise around the deal is that Depay himself seems unwilling to leave Spain and would prefer to wait until the summer transfer window to firstly 'decide his future more calmly', and secondly, because if he leaves the club for free, 'his record at the club where he signs would be higher'.
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