Newcastle United ‘launch fresh £30m bid’ for long-term target after ‘missing out’ on wonderkid

Newcastle United are now less than two weeks away from kicking off their Premier League campaign.

The Magpies defeated Brighton in the USA over the weekend, and they are now preparing to split the squad for the final friendlies this coming weekend, against Villarreal and Fiorentina at St james’ Park. Eddie Howe will want to see his men looking ready for the new season across those games, with the new campaign only a week away from that point.

In the meantime, work continues on the transfer front, and with that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours surrounding St James’ Park.

Fresh Zaniolo links

Newcastle are said to be pushing for a deal to sign Nicolo Zaniolo before the end of the transfer window.

Zaniolo was the subject of interest from Newcastle in the last window, and it was reported that he rejected a move to St James’ Park. But According to Turkish outlet Sabah, the Magpies are ready to launch a £30million bid to land the Italiy international. Zaniolo only joined the Turkish club from AS Roma earlier this year, but he is already being linked with an exit.

The report claims Newcastle’s biggest challenge will be convincing Zaniolo to make the move to Tyneside having failed to do so last time around.

Franca blow

Newcastle have been heavily linked with a move for Brazilian wonderkid Matheus Franca over recent days, but it looks as though they will miss out to a Premier League rival.

As detailed by London World, Crystal Palace have had a £26million bid accepted for the 19-year-old attacker, and he is said to be headed for London to complete a deal.

Flamengo were said to be holding out for £30million, with Newcastle reportedly offering £21million, but it seems they will split the difference to sell him to Palace, who need to replace Wilfried Zaha.