Newcastle United attempting bold transfer ‘hijack’ on defender deal amid midfielder search

Newcastle United will now be stepping up their pre-season preparations in Austria.

The Magpies are hoping to continue their progression this season with at least a top half finish, and they will be helped by a number of new signings.

Eddie Howe has been backed in the summer window, and the signings could keep coming as the new season draws closer.

Newcastle have already snapped up the likes of Sven Botman and Nick Pope, but they may yet add further quality.

And with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding St James’ Park.

Midfielder chase

Newcastle are said to be pushing to sign a centre midfielder this summer as they continue to search for options.

Transfer insider Dean Jones told the RanksFC Podcast: “The other position to look out for is that they probably will sign another central midfielder. They’re trying to find the right profile of player that fits.

“Again, they will pay what it takes to get the player. Boubacar Traore is a young central midfielder that’s been linked and there’s a guy at Lens, Seko Fofana – I don’t know much about him.

“Again, he’s somebody that’s on their radar.”

Tanganga chase

Newcastle are said to be eyeing a move for Tottenham defender Japhet Tanganga.

According to Tutto Mercato Web, the Magpies are hoping to hijack AC Milan’s move for the centre-back.

The Serie A champions are said to be working on a deal to land the 23-year-old, but Newcastle are now said to have tabled an offer.

Tottenham are believed to be keen on Newcastle’s offer, while AC Milan are looking for a loan deal with an option to buy.

Newcastle are also proposing a loan deal, but it’s reported that deal would make the option to buy obligatory.