Newcastle United are currently leading the race for Lille midfielder Thiago Maia, according to claims on Tuesday.
Website Pianeta Genoa 1893, which is obviously dedicated to the Serie A side, says the Magpies recently made a better offer for the player and are closer to getting him.
However, they say the situation could still have a turnaround, at least in case Genoa make a new attempt and outbid the Premier League side.
The website doesn’t report how much each of the clubs have offered to sign the Brazilian, so it’s all little bit in the dark for now.
The interest was said to be mutual, since it was claimed that Watford made a bid for the player, but he would rather sign for Newcastle.
Both the Hornets and Magpies were said to be offering around €20m at the time, with Lille demanding €25m.
