Brazilian star ‘open’ to Newcastle United move as Rafa Benitez signing is linked with summer exit

Newcastle United are now looking ahead to next season as they look to build on improvements under Eddie Howe.

With the appointment of Howe - and the help of January signings - the Magpies improved significantly in the second half of the season.

Survival was achieved with relative comfort in the end, and Newcastle managed to establish a platform upon which they can build heading into next season.

And they should have the help of new signings, too, armed with a healthy budget thanks to their new owners.

Newcastle are expected to be busy in the summer window, and they are already being linked with a number of players.

With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news surrounding St James’ Park.

Lucas Paqueta latest

One of the pricier players linked with a move to the Magpies in recent weeks is Lyon star Lucas Paqueta.

The Brazilian is said to be a target of Newcastle’s, but his price tag means Howe would have little left to work with due to Financial Fair Play regulations.

According to L’Equipe, Paqueta is on the Magpies’ radar, but his £68million valuation is putting them off a move. It is understood the 24-year-old is open to a St James’ Park switch.

It seems unlikely the club will splash out that much knowing they have a number of areas to improve this summer.

Howe needs to spend wisely to improve a number of positions, and this may not be the best way to do that.

Dwight Gayle exit

Newcastle could be set to offload striker Dwight Gayle this summer.

The striker saw limited action this season, making just eight appearances after falling down the pecking order.

And according to a report from The Star, he could now be offloaded, with two Championship clubs circling.

It’s claimed Sheffield United and Middlesbrough are both chasing a deal.