Newcastle United transfer round-up: Magpies ‘eye’ two midfielders and striker in triple summer swoop

The January transfer window may well be now just a memory but that has not stopped Newcastle United being linked with a number of potential new signings.

Here’s a look at the latest names that are reportedly on the Magpies’ radar as thoughts turn towards their next moves in the summer transfer market.

Sven Botman agent speaks out

One common feature of the last two months has been talk surrounding Dutch defender Sven Botman’s possible move to Tyneside.

The Magpies are believed to have made at least two unsuccessful bids for the Lille centre-back and are expected to maintain their interest in the 22-year-old until the summer.

Botman’s agent Nikkie Bruinenberg has given Newcastle some hope that their next attempt to sign his client may well be more successful.

He told Dutch outlet Voetbal International: “Sven isn’t afraid to take a risk. I am sure that he will make the right decision over the summer. Milan and Newcastle are both big clubs.

“We mustn’t make the mistake of thinking Newcastle would only be an economic choice. They are starting to create a good project there, while Milan are a very prestigious club.”

Meanwhile, The Telegraph are reporting Spurs have added Botman to their summer wishlist.

United linked with Austrian

Newcastle’s attempts to remodel their midweek has led to interest in Hoffenheim’s Austrian internal Florian Grillitsch.

German outlet Kicker have claimed the Magpies and Premier League rivals Arsenal are both now considering a move for the 26-year-old, who is out of contract this summer.

Grillitsch would be reunited with former Hoffenheim team-mate Joelinton if he completes a summer switch to St James Park.

Ekitike received ‘lucrative’ offer

Newcastle were unsuccessful in persuading French forward Hugo Ekitike to move to Tyneside on transfer deadline day.

Despite have an offer accepted by Ligue 1 club Reims, the Magpies could not convince the youngster to become part of Eddie Howe’s squad.

Ekitike remains a source of interest for the United hierarchy and another attempt to secure his services could be made this summer.

Reflecting on the events of deadline day, French outlet L’Equipe have reported Ekitike received a “lucrative” offer from Newcastle after they made contact through a French intermediary that is “well-established in England”.

Spanish midfielder a summer target

Newcastle will make another attempt to sign Napoli midfielder Fabian Ruiz - according to Calciomercato.

The Magpies were reported to have made a potential club record bid to sign the Spaniard last month and look to offer around £42million for the former Real Betis star at the end of the season.

The report suggests Napoli wish to hold on to their highly-rated midfielder - but could see their hand forced by a big bid from Newcastle.

Serbian starlet linked

One new name linked with a move to Newcastle over the last 24 hours is Partizan Belgrade youngster Marko Milovanovic.

Anderlecht, Ajax and Wolves have also been linked with a move for the powerful striker - and Republika have suggested Newcastle made a “multi-million” move for his services during the January transfer window.

The 18-year-old striker has 18 months left on his deal - but is set to be offered an extension by his club.