Genoa looking to loan Newcastle United left-back Achraf Lazaar

Genoa have been heavily linked with a move for Achraf Lazaar over the course of the summer transfer window.

The reports in Italy suggested that Genoa are set to loan Newcastle United left-back Achraf Lazaar.

The Morocco international joined Newcastle United from Palermo for a fee in the region of 2.85 million euros in August 2016. His contract expires in the summer of 2021.

Lazaar made 10 appearances across all competitions for Newcastle United.

The 26-year-old is considered to be one of the best left-backs in Morocco.

As a member of Morocco national football team, Lazaar won 17 caps.

Lazaar is currently out of favor at Newcastle United and could leave the club this winter.

The report claims that Genoa manager has extensively scouted Lazaar and is considering a move for the left-back.

According to Football Italia (via Gazzetta dello Sport), “Genoa could return for Achraf Lazaar in January, as Newcastle United are ready to let him leave on loan. The Moroccan was in Italy on transfer deadline day to join the Grifone, but the transfer collapsed and he returned to Tyneside. The former Palermo man has admitted that manager Rafa Benitez “doesn’t speak to me”, so it appears he has no future at St James’ Park. According to Gazzetta dello Sport, the Magpies are willing to let him leave on loan in January, and the Grifone are once again interested. President Enrico Preziosi pulled the plug last time, but with Genoa struggling in Serie A he may well reconsider.”

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Signing the 26-year-old on loan in the winter transfer window would be a masterstroke from Preziosi.

Stylistically, he would be a great fit in Genoa.

How strong that interest is and whether Genoa will make a move remains to be seen but it is certainly one worth keeping an eye on.