Newcastle United given green light to sign Marc Guehi alternative at £42m

As per The Guardian’s Ed Aarons, the Bundesliga side want around £42million for Simakan, who has previously been tracked by Arsenal and Barcelona. Saudi Pro League outfit Al Nassr have opened talks regarding the 24-year-old.

As it stands, Guehi remains Newcastle’s number one target, despite having four bids rejected by Palace.

There was renewed hope on Monday night when the Mail Online reported that an agreement was close following fresh talks over a £70million fee - a figure that would be a club-record signing for Newcastle and represent the Eagles’ biggest-ever sale.

But less than 24 hours later, the 24-year-old was back in action for Palace, playing a full 90 minutes and captaining his team as they beat Norwich City 4-0 at Selhurst Park to advance into the third round of the Carabao Cup.

Magpies chiefs Paul Mitchell and Darren Eales are pressure from supporters to deliver a big signing before the summer transfer window closes on Friday at 11pm.

So far, United have recruited two goalkeepers in Odysseas Vlachodimos and John Ruddy, Lloyd Kelly on a free transfer and Will Osula from Sheffield United for £15million. Only Kelly has appeared in the opening two Premier League games.

As well as Simakan, Bayer Leverkusen’s Edmond Tapsoba had reportedly been considered by United, however the defender has already committed his future to the Bundesliga champions.