Arsenal director opens up on ‘incredible’ Newcastle United transfer target

Arsenal technical director Edu has revealed his admiration for reported Newcastle United transfer target Lucas Paqueta - but is unsure over a move for the Brazil star.

Paqueta has been the subject of transfer speculation ever since the Magpies completed a move for Lyon and Brazil team-mate Bruno Guimaraes during the January transfer window.

That speculation was ramped up even further when the former AC Milan attacking midfielder visited the Magpies star on Tyneside at the end of the Premier League season.

However, Newcastle are not the only club said to retain an interest in Paqueta after he confirmed his wish to end his two-year stay with the Ligue One club.

Arsenal have been widely reported as admirers of the 24-year-old in recent months and Gunners director Edu has opened up on the possiblility of making a move for the Lyon star.

“I’m very respectful when I talk about Lucas,” he told TNT Sports Brazil.

“I’m a guy who likes him a lot, I’ve always liked him, since my time with Brazil’s national team. He’s had a great season, he was considered the best (overseas) player in the French league.

“But today, there really isn’t any kind of talk, there’s only my admiration for the player, because the squad today is, in the position he plays, I think we’re very well served in this regard.”

United have already been backed to add Paqueta to their squad ahead of the new season and make him part of an all-Brazilian midfield trio with fellow countrymen Bruno and Joelinton.

Former West Ham United striker Frank McAvennie believes the Brazilian international would be an ‘incredible’ signing if the Magpies do move for him this summer.

He told Football Insider: “It makes a lot of sense to me and even though £50million would be their record deal, that’s the fee they will have to pay.

“Clubs will ask for more money because it is Newcastle, that’s just a fact, unfortunately.

“But if they really want him, I see no problem in getting him. It would be another incredible signing for them, considering where they were.”

Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas has recently confirmed the Ligue 1 club have received offers for their midfielder and there has been speculation that a £35million offer could be enough to secure his services.