Newcastle United ‘make a push’ to seal £30m deal for Bundesliga star as Brazilian forward move edges closer

A new name has cropped up in Newcastle United’s ongoing bid to add to their squad before the transfer window closes on Thursday week.

Reports in France have suggested the Magpies are looking to strengthen their midfield with the signing of Borussia Monchengladbach star Manu Kone.

The 21-year-old midfielder moved to Germany in a £8.1million move from Toulouse in the January 2021 transfer window before re-joining his former club on loan until the end of the season.

After a number of impressive performances in pre-season, Kone went on to establish himself at Monchengladbach and made 29 appearances in all competitions during his first season at Borussia Park.

He delivered an impressive performance on his debut in a 1-0 win against Borussia Dortmund in October 2021 and revealed his delight at finally making a first appearance for the club.

Speaking to the club website, he said: ”I went through a difficult period after arriving at Borussia because I got injured immediately, but I worked hard to return to fitness and to get back playing again.

“When the coach then told me that I was starting, I was just happy. It was a good week and I gave my all in training. The coach saw that I was ready, and I felt that way as well.

“My moment finally came.”

The France Under-21 international has started all three of his side’s Bundesliga fixtures this season as they claimed wins against Hoffenheim and Hertha Berlin and battled to a 2-2 draw with Schalke 04.

L’Equipe have now reported Newcastle have ‘made a push’ to secure a £35million deal for the ‘box-to-box’ midfielder but have revealed Monchengladbach have ‘pushed back’ on the Magpies interest.

Manchester United have also been linked with a move for Kone in recent months and Atletico Madrid sporting director Andrea Berta is said to ‘be a fan’ of the Colombes-born star.

Meanwhile, Newcastle’s protracted search for a forward player is reportedly approaching a successful conclusion as a deal for Watford star Joao Pedro moved closer.

The Magpies have made two unsuccessful offers for the young Brazilian but journalist Fabrizio Romano has now suggested a deal potentially worth up to £30million has been agreed.

Speaking via his Twitter account on Monday evening, he said: “Joao Pedro to Newcastle, done deal and here we go!

“Full agreement as Watford have now accepted final, official bid worth £25m fixed fee, £5m add-ons.

“Deal will also include sell-on clause for 10%. Personal terms already, as been told contract will be until 2028.”

There had been reports the collapse of Hornets star Ismaila Sarr’s move to Aston Villa had boosted United’s hopes of finally landing Pedro.