Newcastle, Stoke and 3 others reportedly keen on hugely-promising French youngster

According to the Sun, Newcastle are keeping an eye on FC Martigues striker Nordine Ibouroi, but so also are Stoke City, St Etienne, Niort and Cologne.

The 19-year-old also has some Championship clubs on his trail after his performances against Monaco reserves in September.

Ibouroi has been a revelation in the Championnat National 2, French fourth-tier and non-League side, and it’s only a matter of life until he’s snapped up by a big club.

East African minnows Comoros have already handed the teenager a call-up as they look to build their football, and the future seems bright for him.

Ibouroi is also capable of playing wide, and his versatility could come handy to a Newcastle side in dire need of wingers and strikers.

Given that he has a French passport, work-permit in England wouldn’t be an issue should a move to the topflight happen.

The Magpies were linked with a couple of French youngsters during the summer transfer window, and despite being unproven at a higher level, Ibouroi could become Newcastle version of Riyad Mahrez – a player who conquered England after arriving from France lower tiers.