France Football have suggested that Sochaux striker Modibo Maiga is set to join Premier League side Newcastle in the January transfer window. The 24 year-old Mali international, under contract until 2014, requested a move away from the Stade Auguste Bonal this summer but a move did not come to fruition. Newcastle have been rumoured to be in negotiations with Sochaux for the striker’s signature since but now it seems that a move may finally be on the cards.

Maiga, who has scored four goals in ten appearances this season, was in London yesterday to undergo medical examinations and oversee negotiations for a 4-and-a-half-year contract with the North East club. The price being quoted is a little over €7m (£5.9m).

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After André Ayew signed a new contract, Marseille will be boosted by the news that midfielder Benoit Cheyrou is also set to extend his current deal with the club. The 30 year-old is currently under contract until 2013 but will extend for an added year.