Newcastle United and West Ham not alone in chase of Montpellier ace
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Ligue 1 star Ryad Boudebouz looks set to become the centre of a transfer battle, with Newcastle United hoping to see off Premier League duo West Ham and West Brom.
The forward has shone for Montpellier this term, netting seven times in addition to a pair of assists.
And with a valuation of just over £4.5m by the number bods at transfermarkt.co.uk, the Algerian could be a January bargain.
The 26-year-old began his career with Sochaux, and showcased his talent early on with eight goals and eight assists in the 2010-2011 campaign.
After five seasons and 30 goals, Boudebouz moved to Bastia in the 2013 summer transfer window, and continued to impress.
Following two steady campaigns with the Corsica outfit, the winger returned to the mainland with Montpellier paying £1.4m for his services.
And although Boudebouz is only halfway into his four-year-deal, a string of impressive performances are making La Paillade sweat.
Alongside that English trio, French giants Marseille are also believed to be interested.
Montpellier’s one and only Ligue 1 title came in the 2011-2012 campaign, and they sit a lowly 11th this time around.
With over two years left on the contract, the south-coast oufit could make a sizeable investment on a man they signed 18 months ago.
Despite a recent blip, Newcastle look destined to return to the Premier League next season, and the lure of working under a manager of Rafa Benitez’s calibre could swing things the Magpies’ way.
West Ham hold the appeal of a new stadium however, plus the London lifestyle and the chance to play alongside Dimitri Payet.
But a quick look at the Premier League – and Championship – tables tells you which of the three is in the best shape right now, and Tony Pulis may well have a smug grin on his face.
All Odds and Markets are correct as of the date of publishing
