Newcastle United make ‘approach’ for Premier League star amid race for £18m midfielder

Newcastle United have not wasted time in the summer transfer window so far.

The Magpies are determined to improve ahead of the new season, keen to kick on from their 11th place finish from the last campaign.

And new signings are seen as a key part of that, with Eddie Howe needing to improve a number of areas.

The big-money signing of Sven Botman and the capture of last season’s loan star Matt Targett should take care of the defence.

Meanwhile, Howe has secured his goalkeeper, with Nick Pope joining from relegated Burnley.

Other areas are still in need of strengthening, though, and we could yet see exits from St James’ Park.

With that in mind, we have rounded up all the latest transfer news and rumours concerning the Magpies:

Gordon approach

Newcastle are said to have made an approach to Everton over young star Anthony Gordon.

According to Mike McGrath of The Telegraph, the Magpies have made their move for Gordon, and they have told the Toffees how much they are willing to pay.

Newcastle are said to be prepared to pay up to £35million to complete a deal for the 21-year-old winger this summer.

The report suggests it’s now over to Everton to see what happens next, with the Merseyside club needing to choose between welcoming a big fee and keeping their talented young wide man around.

Traore race

Newcastle are also said to be pursuing a deal for Metz star Boubacar Traore.

Traore is currently playing in Ligue 2, but he has attracted interest from a number of Premier League sides this summer.

According to Football Insider, Newcastle are pushing for a deal for the midfielder, but they are joined by Leicester City and Nottingham Forest.

Metz are said to price their star midfielder at around £18m, an accessible figure for the Magpies, you would imagine.