Lille coach Rudi Garcia has confirmed that Newcastle have made a £4 million bid for right-back Mathieu Debuchy, but that the offer has been rejected.
The enterprising full-back has impressed for France so far in Euro 2012, and as such has been linked with a move away from the Ligue 1 club.
However, the Tyneside outfit will need to increase their offer if they want to capture the defender.
“He is torn between staying with us and playing in the Champions League in our new stadium or going elsewhere,” Garcia told the French press, translated to English by Sky Sports.
“If he does go and it is a sporting progression, then we will be happy to see him evolve – but we have not planned to replace him.
“But I do believe that Newcastle have faxed an offer of £4million – but they must have the wrong player.
“His performances for France have not surprised me, as he plays with France as he does with us, he plays high and attacks but defensively is also very rigorous and he exudes confidence.
“Without insulting Reveillere and Sagna, he is trying to show he should always be right-back for France,” he concluded.
Newcastle have strong links with Lille after buying Yohan Cabaye from them last summer.
By Gareth McKnight