Newcastle United have joined Saudi Arabia in race to sign 7-goal midfielder available for cut price

Newcastle United are enjoying themselves on the transfer window this summer, having already snapped up Sandro Tonali and Harvey Barnes. But Eddie Howe and his team still have business to carry out and there are names still linked to St James’ Park before the new Premier League season starts.

Newcastle are in the running to sign Galatasaray midfielder Nicolò Zaniolo this summer, despite the player only joining the Turkish club six months ago from AS Roma. The Magpies are one of two English sides reported to be keeping tabs on the Italian, and interest overall is extremely high.

According to Hurriyet, Howe’s side are rivalling a number of European giants for Zaniolo, including Juventus and AC Milan, who have already made contact over his signature. An unnamed Saudi Arabia club is also said to be pursuing a move for the 24-year-old.

Juventus have been described as ‘the most serious buyer’ right now, considering they have previously offered €20 million (£17m) plus midfielder Weston McKennie for Zaniolo. Galatasaray turned it down though, as they are looking for a higher bid. Although the player’s release clause is set at €35 million (£30m), the Süper Lig outfit are willing to accept €30 million (£26m) for Zaniolo this transfer window.

Galatasaray, like the Toon, have enjoyed bringing in new recruits this summer but they now need to balance the books and make back some cash as their account is currently in minus figures.

Zaniolo is a versatile midfielder who can play in both the attacking and central role as well as on the right-wing and even in the No.9 poisition when called upon. He clocked seven goals and four assists during his stint with both Roma and Galatasaray last season. In the campaign prior, Zaniolo contributed eight goals and nine assists across all competitions for Roma, but he did also pick up 14 yellow cards along the way.