Newcastle are expected to table a bid for Juventus midfielder Adrien Rabiot during the January transfer window, according to Calciomercato.com.

The Italian website claim that both Chelsea and Arsenal are keen on signing the 27-year-old on a free transfer in the summer but the Magpies are “ready to present a rich offer” now.

Rabiot has been excellent for France at the World Cup. He has played an integral role in helping his country reach the semi-finals, which has justified the praise he received from his captain Hugo Lloris before the tournament started:

“Technically, he’s a very elegant player and he really can help us go far.”

It will be interesting to see what Juventus decide to do with Rabiot when the transfer window opens. He will be able to sign a pre-contract agreement with foreign clubs with his current deal set to expire in June.

However, his performances in Qatar may mean that they could get a decent offer for him in January, with Newcastle seemingly poised to make their move.

Rabiot could, though, still decide to see out the remainder of the season in Italy. If that happens, Chelsea may yet secure his services.