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Newcastle United’s failure to take Sven Botman away from Lille in the winter market saw them sign Dan Burn from Brighton & Hove Albion.

The Tyneside club still have the Ligue 1 man on their agenda, but face tough competition from Milan for his signature in the summer.

Eddie Howe’s side also have Stefan de Vrij in their sights as his contract situation at Inter still needs to be sorted out.

His current deal expires in 2023 and FcInterNews say the 30-year-old doesn’t think about leaving the San Siro. However, the centre-back is waiting for signals from the Nerazzurri over a new deal.

Mino Raiola, the Netherlands international’s agent is ‘still waiting’ to find out the Serie A winners’ intentions with regards to his client.

A year ago, the two parties came to an understanding over a new deal worth €4.5m per season, until 2026. De Vrij’s camp want to know if it’s ‘still valid’ or should they look for a new club.

When talking about his options, it’s claimed the Magpies have expressed an interest in the Dutchman. They ‘would be happy to pay’ €25m to the Italian club to get the player and a move to St James’ Park would see him ‘earn more than double’, with €7m/year in wages ready for him.

De Vrij, for now, however, is not tempted to join Newcastle, meaning that if he were to leave, it would probably be for another club.

Unless the Magpies end up being extra-convincing, if you get our gist.