Newcastle United ‘set limit’ on transfer target fee as ‘alternative’ option identified

Newcastle United are now preparing for a top four six-pointer against Tottenham this weekend.

The Magpies are currently three points ahead of Tottenham with a game in-hand, and they know a win this weekend would be a huge step towards wrapping up Champions League qualification. Eddie Howe’s men head into the clash looking to bounce back from a disappointing defeat to Aston Villa last weekend, but Spurs also slipped up, losing to lowly Bournemouth at home.

As preparations for the clash ramp up, we have rounded up all the latest news surrounding St James’ Park.

McTominay limit

Newcastle have reportedly decided to put a cap on how much they will pay to land Manchester United midfielder Scott McTominay.

It seems McTominay could be a target for the Magpies this summer, with Howe keen to strengthen his midfield this term. Manchester United are also set to strengthen their midfield, meaning the Scot could well be offloaded, but the Red Devils may put a premium on the deal, given they would be selling to a top four rival.

According to Daily Mail, Newcastle have already put a limit on how much they will pay for McTominay amid a reported £50million valuation.

Billing interest

Interestingly, the Daily Mail, in the same report, have also claimed that Newcastle are considering a move for Bournemouth midfielder Philip Billing.

The Danish star is tipped to be an alternative for McTominay should the Scot prove too expensive this summer. Billing has been one of the most impressive players at Bournemouth for some time, but he is still likely to be cheaper than McTominay.

Billing is valued at £15million, but the Cherries would surely charge much more than that shouls Newcastle come knocking this summer. Having said that, as things stand, the Dane is only under contract for another year, putting Bournemouth in a tough spot.