Newcastle United and Aston Villa tracking Rennes forward Yassir Zabiri

Newcastle United and Aston Villa are monitoring Yassir Zabiri, with the Moroccan forward attracting interest in the Premier League, according to Ekrem Konur.

The 21-year-old is currently playing for Racing Santander on loan from Stade Rennais. His recent form has increased attention around the striker, particularly after he scored a hat-trick.

That performance is understood to have caught the eye of scouts from both Premier League clubs, who are continuing to follow Zabiri’s progress in Spain before deciding whether to make an approach.

Stade Rennais could demand a significant fee if either club moves for the forward. The French club would reportedly seek about €20m for Zabiri, despite his current market value being estimated at €9m by Transfermarkt.

Newcastle United and Aston Villa are therefore keeping the player under close observation, with his displays for Racing Santander potentially intensifying the competition for his signature.

It remains to be seen whether either side will make a formal offer and attempt to persuade Stade Rennais to sell their young Moroccan forward.