Newcastle United make transfer ‘approach’ for Portuguese midfielder hailed by Pep Guardiola

Newcastle United are one of three Premier League clubs said to be showing an interest in Portugal international midfielder Matheus Nunes.

The Sporting Lisbon star has enjoyed a productive season as Primeira Liga as his side finished as runners-up to eventual champions Porto.

The Brazilian-born midfielder scored four goals and provided five assists during 50 appearances in all competitions and forced his way into the Portugal squad for the first time during the first half of the campaign.

An international debut arrived in a 3-0 friendly win against World Cup hosts Qatar in October and Nunes racked up his first Portugal goal in a 3-1 win over Turkey in the World Cup Qualifying play-off semi-final.

His form for club and country has led to significant interest from around Europe and Newcastle, Everton and Wolverhampton Wanderers have all reportedly made approaches.

Former Wolves star Ivan Cavaleiro recently told O Jogo he believes Nunes is ready for the Premier League and Manchester City manager Pep Guardiola suggested the midfielder was ‘one of the best players in the world’ ahead of his side’s Champions League clash with Sporting last season.

French outlet Foot Mercato have reported a bid of around £38.9million has been rebuffed by the Portuguese giants - although stopped short of naming the club said to have made the unsuccessful offer.

Nunes is said to be ‘open’ to a move to the Premier League but Sporting have warned any suitors they will have to meet a buyout clause of around £51.7million to secure his services.