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Newcastle United have been linked with a move for Senegal midfielder Cheick N’Doye – despite their relegation to the Championship.

The 6ft 3ins midfielder, who is 30, was one of the stand-out performers for newly-promoted Angers in Ligue 1 this season and wants to move to England.

After N’Golo Kante and Riyad Mahrez made such a stunning contribution to Leicester’s title charge, the goal-scoring midfielder is being touted as the next surprise hit from France. He had played most of his career in the lower leagues in France.

His contract expires NEXT summer and Angers are keen to cash in on the Senegalese star. Saturday’s L’Equipe lists United as one of the clubs interested in the 30-year-old, with Aston Villa, Swansea and West Ham also mentioned as possible destinations for the tall, athletic midfielder.

He scored seven goals in 20 games as Angers finished 9th.

In December Guy Hillion, a Chelsea scout, said: “He’s an interesting player for the Premier League. If he has to leave for England he’ll have to leave quickly and he has to choose a team that will play.”

Whether United’s supposed interest pre-dates Rafa Benitez is unclear, and Newcastle may be looking at more experienced second tier players. Newcastle may also have been burned by their experience with Henri Saivet , who has been unable to make an impact at St James’ Park despite his January move from Bordeaux.