The European media continue to link Newcastle United with big signings, only to then insist the player isn’t keen on a move to the Magpies.
That made a lot of sense during the January transfer window, when relegation looked a realistic prospect, but it would be assumed Eddie Howe’s progress since then will have changed a few minds.
Spain’s Cadena Ser report Jorge Mendes is working on a transfer for Marco Asensio, who has a year left on his Real Madrid contract. But despite a move to the Premier League being possible, Newcastle seem to be pushed aside.
Over in Italy, the Magpies have been pulled into the picture for Lazio’s Sergej Milinković-Savić, by Gazzetta dello Sport. It had been thought that Manchester United and PSG could tussle for the midfielder, yet despite endless claims, and perhaps some hope from Lazio of an auction, that hasn’t happened yet.
Newcastle and Arsenal are two other possibilities, although that they don’t have Champions League football is seen as a drawback. This time, though, Howe’s side isn’t completely ruled out.
Milinković-Savić has a contract lasting until June 2024, and Gazzetta explain that puts Lazio in a dangerous situation. If their player stays, and doesn’t renew, his price will begin to drop further.
The Serbian’s agent is ‘working to unblock the situation’, whether that be a transfer or a renewal. Lazio are said to want a minimum of €65m plus bonuses.
