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Newcastle United are interested in £10million-rated Lyon defender Samuel Umtiti, who is set to quit Ligue 1 in the summer.

United confirmed this week that they will spend more in the summer – if they stay up – and talented 22-year-old Umtiti is among the centre-back targets being monitored by the club.

And United could make it a double deal in the close season. Newcastle are also interested in striker Alexandre Lacazette, the France international who was heavily linked with a move in the January transfer window.

United said at Monday’s Fans Forum that they had defender targets in January but could not broker a deal that worked for them. Umtiti signed a new contract last year and Lyon were unwilling sellers in the New Year – but will likely listen to good offers in the close season.

Umtiti can play on the left side of defence and in the centre, which appeals to the club. He is also on the verge of a France call-up while showing form that has seen him linked with Chelsea and Spurs lately.

The player himself has ambitions to test himself at a higher level. Umtiti said last year: “Going abroad is a dream, there are very great clubs that you dream about. England? Everyone admires that league.

“I would say I prefer the Spanish game, but to be honest, I don’t have a real preference.”