Newcastle United are interested in making a surprise move for Crewe Alexandra forward Mikael Mandron, according to Football Insider.

Steve Bruce was pictured in the stands at the weekend as Crewe defeated Peterborough United by two goals to nil at the Alexandra Stadium, where Mandron clearly impressed.

Mandron didn't score, but he produced a fine performance as a target man, leading the line and helping Crewe record an important win.

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Mandron - a former Sunderland player who made only three appearances for the Black Cats - has scored three goals in 11 appearances for Crewe in League One this term, netting six goals in all competitions.

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are keeping tabs on Mandron, who scored six goals across all competitions for League One side Gillingham last season.

The 26-year-old is out of contract at the end of the season, meaning that he is free to discuss personal terms with other clubs in January.

The Verdict

Well, this would be a major surprise.

Mandron is a solid player at League One level, but I'd have serious doubts over him being able to make the step-up to the Premier League given his lack of goals in League One this term.

He's a tall, strong player who is obviously good in the air, but you need more than just aerial threat in the Premier League.

I'd be shocked at this one given the amount of options to choose from in the Championship or elsewhere. Mandron would be buzzing with this move, though.