Newcastle United are hoping to sign the exciting young Real Madrid defender in January.

According to reports from the Sunday Express (printed edition; 07/01/2018 – page 39), Newcastle United are hoping to sign Achraf Hakimi on loan in January.

The 19-year-old is an exciting young right-back for Real Madrid, and has been attracting interest from clubs like Sporting Lisbon and Real Betis.

He is a highly talented young defender, and has already made six international appearances for his country, Morocco.

Hakimi spent a large part of his youth career at Madrid, and made his senior debut in October last year. At this moment, he is seen mainly as a backup to Dani Carvajal.

The youngster played 90 minutes of both Real Madrid’s Champions League games against Tottenham this season, which shows he is highly rated by Zinedine Zidane.

Madrid want him to move out on loan and get more experience. Newcastle have an edge over other suitors, given Rafael Benitez’s strong connection with his former club.

Benitez is desperate to bolster his squad in the January transfer window, and Hakimi would be a terrific loan signing for the club.

In other news, Report: Leeds now beating Italian club in the race to sign £25m star