... attempt to lure him to St. James Park depends on Mike Ashley breaking his wage cap by £40,000 per week to a staggering £100,000 weekly salary.
It is reported that the 28-year-old was offered £85,000 a week by the Toon, but the Frenchman will only agree to a move for £100,000 per week.
Premier League sides Sunderland, Swansea, and West Ham United are also after him but NONE could stretch to that figure.
And neither will Ashley, who won't go beyond £85,000 a week, and can anyone blame him?