Newcastle United track French defender

Newcastle United have reportedly entered the race to sign Lille defender Mathieu Debuchy.

The 26-year-old has been linked with moves to Tottenham Hotspur, Bayern Munich and Valencia during a season in which he has shone for Les Dogues.

However, Rudi Garcia is keen to keep hold of the French international as he looks to mount a charge to reclaim the Ligue 1 title.

"I want all the important players to stay at Lille next season. I include Mathieu in that," Garcia told L'Equipe.

"I want him to have a great time at the Euros and then come back to us and show his best form during the summer."

Debuchy has three caps for France.