Barcelona star would be open to Newcastle United summer transfer

Barcelona playmaker Philippe Coutinho would considering joining compatriots Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton at Newcastle United this summer.

The Brazilian duo were on top form on Saturday as the Magpies continued their surge up the Premier League table with a 3-0 win at relegation-threatened Norwich City.

And they could be joined by a third Samba star if reports in Spanish outlet Sport are to be believed.

Coutinho has spent the second half of the season on loan at Aston Villa after reuniting with former Liverpool team-mate Steven Gerrard during the January transfer window.

Villa have first refusal on Coutinho but remain undecided over whether to turn that loan move into a permanent deal at the end of the season.

Sport have reported Newcastle are waiting in the wings as they look to make a £33million move for the Brazilian international and are willing to match his salary at the Camp Nou.

Magpies are “in the picture” for Serie A hot-shot

Not for the first time this season, Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for Napoli striker Victor Osimhen.

The Nigerian international is the subject of interest from a number of clubs around Europe and Naples-based outlet Il Mattino have named the Magpies as one of those clubs.

The report carries quotes from Osimhen’s agent Andrea D’Amico, saying: “If a very important offer arrives, he goes away. But this is true for every player who plays in Italy.

“At the moment I have no requests from the Premier League, but it is early, it is a situation that remains evolving.

“England remains a top tier market. When I speak of an important and indispensable offer for Osimhen, I mean offers of €150m.”

North East neighbours target move for Magpies keeper

Championship side Middlesbrough have placed one of Newcastle’s goalkeepers on their summer wishlist as they look to improve their squad next season.

The Magpies are expected to conduct their own shake-up of their goalkeeping options at the end of the season and the Boro are hoping to take advantage by making a move for Karl Darlow - according to The Sun.

The 31-year-old has been limited to just eight appearances in all competitions this season - but continues to be a reliable backup option for regular number one Martin Dubravka.

Leicester City’s Daniel Iverson is also under consideration by Boro.