Newcastle have joined the list of clubs showing interest in Lyon right-back Malo Gusto.
The 19-year-old is wanted by Manchester United also but bids are expected to be shelved until the summer with Lyon asking for at least £35m for January.
The defender, who has played for France at various age-group levels, is one of the club’s most prized assets and has been a valuable player this season.
He shares dual citizenship between France and Portugal, and played against both Rangers and West Ham in the Europa League last season.
His 14 appearances have him among the club’s top five most used players this season, with only three players having played more minutes than him.
Seen as an agile full-back who likes to get forward, Gusto has provided width to Lyon’s play this season and would be thought to bring the same to Newcastle or Manchester United.
Newcastle are planning ahead with Kieran Trippier now 32.
They have also considered Ivan Fresneda at Real Valladolid and Harrison Ashby of West Ham.
Fresneda, 18, is another player considered a top prospect and would be available at a slightly cheaper price of £26m – despite having a contract with the Spanish outfit until 2025.
Real Valladolid, who are owned by former Real Madrid and Brazil legend Ronaldo Nazario, are in a battle to stay in La Liga this season and would seemingly like to keep their squad together to achieve that aim.