Quote -"The deal — the largest gold mining takeover ever, if completed — is key to Newmont’s efforts to extend its lead over other bullion mining rivals like Barrick Gold Corp. It would also increase Newmont’s exposure to copper, a key material in the clean energy transition, at a time when analysts are predicting major shortages of the wiring metal over the coming decade. Newcrest wants copper to make up more than 50% of revenue by the end of the decade, up from around a quarter now."

If they want Copper why wouldn't they be looking at LBSR Hay Mountain ?   Unless, they want proven reserves and an established mining operation. 

Newmont's $19.5 Billion Offer for Newcrest Would Create World Biggest Gold Miner - Bloomberg