Newcastle lead Aston Villa in the race to sign Axel Tuanzebe from Manchester United | OneFootball

Newcastle ahead of Aston Villa in the race to sign Axel Tuanzebe from Manchester United

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are ahead of Aston Villa in the race to sign Axel Tuanzebe from Manchester United. The Red Devils are ready to let the defender leave on loan. Newcastle and Villa are both after Tuanzebe but it would seem that the former are in pole position.

It’s hard to believe that Tuanzebe is just 23. Sometimes it feels like it’s been ages since Tuanzebe made his bow for United but he hasn’t been able to carve out a regular spot for himself in the side. Tuanzebe did have a couple of impressive loan stints away at Aston Villa.

Axel Tuanzebe of Aston Villa celebrates with his winners medal after the Sky Bet Championship match at Wembley Stadium, London. Picture date: 27th May 2019. Picture credit: Craig Mercer/Sportimage.

Even when he has been fit, the form of first-choice defenders Harry Maguire and Victor Lindelof has kept him out of the side. Now, with Raphael Varane arriving it is likely that Tuanzebe will feature even lesser than what he did.

However, interest in the academy graduate remains high. Aston Villa made an enquiry for their former man after the departure of Bjorn Engels. It would appear that Newcastle are the side leading the race for Tuanzebe. Newcastle have been given some encouragement over him as United are open to letting him leave on loan.

Axel Tuanzebe started for Manchester United against Sheffield United. (imago Images)

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As talented as Tuanzebe is, there is a good chance he will not make the grade at United. United are likely to go into this season with Maguire and Varane as first-choice defenders. There are Lindelof and Bailly to cover them, leaving Tuanzebe in the cold. With interest high in the player, United would be wise to accept a deal.