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Now Newcastle United are back in the Premier League big time, their interest, or possible interest, in players receives more coverage around the world media. Add Rafael Benitez to the mix, and the Spanish media are especially keen to make any link they can.

Thursday’s edition of Marca reports Newcastle interest in Gabriel Pires. The 23 year old Leganes attacker had a great game at the weekend as his club beat Real Betis 4-0, scoring one of the goals himself.

That performance is set to throw Gabriel back into the rumour mill, believe Marca, and Newcastle United were also linked in January.

Back then there were claims of a Newcastle loan offer, a potential temporary move which didn’t seem to make a great deal of sense for anyone involved. Whether Marca’s claim of interest is fresh, or simply a hangover from the winter window, isn’t explained.

Gabriel Pires has primarily played as an attacking midfielder for Leganes this season, Screen Shot 2017-05-11 at 09.11.08scoring five goals and adding an assist. He’s also been deployed as a central midfielder, centre forward, and on the left, meaning the player’s versatility could be attractive to Benitez.

Born in Rio de Janeiro, Gabriel joined the Juventus youth system in 2011, which could suggest he already has an EU passport, meaning Newcastle United wouldn’t have to worry about a work permit.