Newcastle United in ‘pole position’ to seal deal for £45m-rated striker

Newcastle United are in pole position to sign Timo Werner - if Chelsea allow the striker to leave on loan this summer.

That’s according to i News as the Blues wait on potential incomings of their own before making a decision on the Germany international’s future.

Having strengthened their backline with the permanent arrival of Matt Targett, Nick Pope and Sven Botman, United’s focus is on signing an attacker.

First missing out on Hugo Ekitike to Paris Saint-Germain, the Magpies have been frustrated in their efforts to bolster the attack, as admitted by Eddie Howe on Friday.

“I think there is a slight frustration but not aimed at anyone from our side,” Howe said.

“It’s just an understanding of the window and the mechanics that go into making transfer happen.

“There’s a frustration that you want to be build your team and get the cohesive nature working quickly.

“We hope we can do something but I think we’ve shown tonight we do have strength in depth.”

United have lodged enquiries for a number of forwards, with Chelsea’s Werner the latest name to be linked with a potential move to St James’ Park.

It’s claimed Newcastle have told the West London club they are prepared to pay a loan fee and pay a proportion of his sizeable wages.

The Daily Mirror also reported over the weekend that Chelsea would likely want to insert an obligation to buy clause next summer.

Werner remains in favour under Thomas Tuchel for his tireless workrate, although does have a reputation among Chelsea fans for him missing a number of key changes.

The 26-year-old is reportedly desperate to succeed in the Premier League and a fresh start on Tyneside could be what he needs.

Werner has scored just 10 goals in 56 Premier League appearances, compared to the 28 goals during his final campaign in the Bundesliga at RB Leipzig.

United have also showed interest in Armando Broja after his successful loan spell at Southampton last term.

Howe admitted a new signing before Saturday’s league opener against Nottingham Forest is unlikely, although work is continuing behind the scenes.