Newcastle United are closing in on the signing of Bazoumana Touré, the 20-year-old Ivorian winger who has quietly become one of the most exciting young talents in the Bundesliga this season.

Touré joined Hoffenheim from Swedish side Hammarby less than 12 months ago, having previously come through ASEC Mimosas — a path that several African teenagers have followed into top European football. At every step up, he has matched the level demanded of him.

Hammarby made a tenfold return on their investment when selling Touré to Hoffenheim, and now the German club are set to profit handsomely themselves. His valuation has effectively quadrupled in just over a year since arriving in Germany.

Twenty goal involvements and counting

Touré has been directly involved in 20 goals since moving to the Bundesliga — five goals and 15 assists — a return that includes winning penalties and creating chances in abundance from wide positions.

He has also represented Ivory Coast at the World Cup this summer, cementing his status as one of African football's most promising young attackers.

Pure pace and end product

What sets Touré apart from many of his speed-focused peers is that his pace translates directly into goals and assists. He is regarded as one of the fastest players in Europe, terrorising opposing full-backs down the left flank with relentless directness and an ability to run in behind defensive lines.

He is a prolific dribbler and an even more dangerous chance creator, combining slender athleticism with sharp decision-making in the final third. This season, he and fellow Ivorian Yan Diomande have formed a devastating wide partnership for Hoffenheim in the Bundesliga.

If his finishing continues to develop, Touré has the attributes to grow into a truly elite winger. Hoffenheim will play in European competition next season following a strong campaign, but the pull of the Premier League appears to have won out.