Newcastle United and Liverpool handed potential boost in transfer pursuit of La Liga star

Newcastle United and Liverpool are said to be interested in signing highly-rated Sevilla defender Loic Bade. A report in Spanish publication Estadio Deportivo claims the Magpies are big admirers of the player and that the Reds have sent scouts to watch the Frenchman play in recent weeks.

The report, via Sport Witness, suggests the Premier League clubs have received a potential boost in their attempts to sign Bade as Sevilla may be forced to cash in on the centre-back to raise funds to aid their financial situation. Bade, whose previous clubs include Le Havre, Lens, Rennes and Nottingham Forest (loan), has a reported €60m (£50m) release clause in his current contract.

The 24-year-old has played nine times in La Liga this term, averaging 4.9 clearances and 2.4 aerial duels per match. It has been a difficult start to the season for Sevilla, who are sitting in the bottom half of the table after recording just four wins.

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Bade will have one eye on winning a place in France's squad ahead of the 2026 World Cup. He is still waiting to make his senior debut for his country.

After failing to capture Marc Guehi from Crystal Palace in the summer, there is a distinct possibility the Magpies could look to bolster their defensive ranks in the New Year. Centre-back is an area where United are light on numbers as Sven Botman and Jamaal Lascelles remain unavailable for selection through injury.

Eddie Howe's side are back in action this afternoon when they visit high-flying Nottingham Forest.