Toon target Gouiri ‘is not for sale’
OGC Nice boss Lucien Favre has warned potential suitors Amine Gouiri is not for sale this summer after taking over at the Ligue 1 club.
Favre, who was also linked with the vacant position at Newcastle United following Steve Bruce’s departure, told fans of Les Aiglons they would not be letting their best players leave this summer.
Gouiri, Khephren Thuram and Jean-Clair Todibo have all been linked with moves away from the Allianz Riviera.
However, the 64-year-old has made a vow to supporters.
Speaking at his unveiling press conference, he said: “Yes. Gouiri and Thuram will stay, for sure. Todibo too.
“They will stay. It’s important to master transfer windows, one or two players can make a huge difference in a team.”
Newcastle United had been linked with a move for Gouiri after talks with Hugo Ekitike reportedly hit a stumbling point over his agents demands.
Gouri had been considered a decent alternative for the Magpies, who are also exploring a number of other options.
While Favre has seemingly closed the door on Gouiri’s departure, Newcastle’s financial power may still have some baring on proceedings.
Timothe Crepin, French journalist at 90 Football, claims while a move for Gouri is highly unlikely the Magpies could lure him away from Nice with an offer in excess of £50million.
He said: “The story of Gouiri in Nice is far from over.
“Nice is the right club for him to continue growing.
“I don’t see him as a really compatible player for the Premier League at the moment.
“When Lucien Favre arrived at a press conference the president of Nice and Lucien Favre said Thuram and Gouiri were going to stay.
“I don’t see how they could go back on their words. Unless Newcastle offers EUR50m or more.”
It’s highly unlikely the Magpies would spend that much on a player who has played just two full seasons in senior football, regardless of his potential.
Eddie Howe has already spoken about ensuring the club get their value for money with any new signings.