“Newcastle PULL AHEAD in Shock Transfer Race for ‘GOALSCORING MACHINE’ – Magpies Ready to FAST-TRACK Sensational Deal!”

Newcastle United are said to be at the front of the queue in the pursuit of Watford striker Mamadou Doumbia, with reports suggesting the club could soon step up their efforts to land the highly rated teenager.

According to Africa Foot, the Magpies currently hold an advantage over several Premier League rivals who are also monitoring the forward’s situation.

The January transfer window has so far been a quiet one for Newcastle, with no senior signings completed to date.

That lack of activity is largely down to the club’s heavy spending during the summer, when significant fees were paid to bring in players such as Anthony Elanga, Nick Woltemade, Yoane Wissa and Jacob Ramsey.

Those investments may have restricted Newcastle’s flexibility this winter, forcing them to adopt a more cautious approach.

With the deadline fast approaching and the window set to close on Monday, Newcastle could instead be prioritising a major rebuild in the summer.

Eddie Howe’s side have endured an underwhelming campaign, and while reinforcements would be welcome, the manager may have to be patient before seeing fresh faces arrive at St James’ Park.

Newcastle reportedly leading chase for Doumbia

Africa Foot claim Newcastle are now leading a competitive race to sign Doumbia, despite strong interest from other English top-flight clubs.

While it remains unclear whether the Magpies are targeting a January swoop or planning a move later in the year, the report describes the situation as a “real battle” for the 19-year-old’s signature.

Doumbia has been a regular presence for Watford this season, making 19 Championship appearances. During that time, he has scored three goals and registered one assist, while earning 12 starts in the league.

His performances have highlighted his raw potential, and Watford are unlikely to sanction a cut-price deal, particularly midway through the campaign when squad depth is crucial.

Loan return could benefit all parties

At present, Howe already has Woltemade and Wissa as his primary central attacking options. Should Doumbia arrive in January, opportunities for consistent first-team football would be limited.

For that reason, a loan move back to Watford would make sense if Newcastle completed a deal this month.

Allowing the Mali international, who has been labelled a “goalscoring machine”, to continue his development in familiar surroundings would benefit both player and club.

While Doumbia is not an automatic starter at Vicarage Road, he is still seeing more regular action than he would likely get on Tyneside at this stage of his career.