Newcastle United prepare £25m bid for ‘phenomenal’ Premier League-linked star as defender loan move nears

Newcastle United have stepped up their interest in Real Madrid forward Marco Asensio - according to reports in Spain.

The 28-times capped Spanish international has enjoyed a trophy-laden spell at the Bernabeu since joining Real from Mallorca in 2014, claiming three La Liga titles, three Champions League winners medals, three Club World Cups and and two UEFA Super Cups.

He remained part of Carlo Ancelotti’s plans and ended last season as Real’s third highest goalscorer as his side claimed a La Liga and Champions League double - but uncertainty surrounds his future as he enters the final 12 months of his current contract.

Asensio - who was described as phenomenal by former Real boss Zinedine Zidane - spoke about his future during the recent spate of international fixtures, saying: "I am focused on the national team. When this concentration is over, we will talk. We will see what I will do with my future.

“Renew or leave Real Madrid? I think there are three possibilities, there is also the option to stay and fulfil my contract year.

"My future does not have to depend on whether or not I will have a place in the next World Cup.

"Rumours are part of football, and more so at Real Madrid. High-level players are always associated with it. Many players come out every summer and it's something we have to live with."

A departure from the Bernabeu looks increasingly likely with talks over a new deal yet to reach a successful conclusion and Spanish news outlet Fichajes have reported Newcastle are reportedly looking to take advantage by submitting a £25million for the 26-year-old.

However, that offer could be insufficient with the report stating Real are looking for nearer £30million for their long-serving star.

Manchester United Arsenal, Liverpool, Tottenham Hotspur and Serie A giants AC Milan have all been linked with a move for the Spaniard over the last few months.

Magpies defender closing on loan move to Championship club

Newcastle are reportedly close to agreeing a deal that would see defender Ciaran Clark join Sheffield United on a season-long loan deal.

The Republic of Ireland international made just 14 appearances for Eddie Howe’s side last season but was removed from the Magpies Premier League squad at the end of January.

Several clubs have been linked with a move for the centre-back but the Daily Telegraph have reported Sheffield United are ‘close’ to agreeing a deal to take Clark to Bramall Lane.

The move would all but sever Clark’s ties with Newcastle as his current deal comes to an end next summer.