Newcastle United have been linked with a move for Conor Gallagher
Conor Gallagher of Atletico de Madrid looks on prior the game La Liga EA Sport match between Atletico de Madrid and Real Sociedad
Talk of Newcastle United making an imminent move for Atletico Madrid midfielder Conor Gallagher is wide of the mark as the Magpies attack other targets in what could prove to be a transformational summer window.
Speculation in Spain has been rife in recent days, starting with Mundo Deportivo on Friday, that Newcastle were plotting a £40m move for the former Chelsea ace. Eddie Howe has long been an admirer of Gallagher's ability and previously tracked the England international during his time at Stamford Bridge.
The landscape has slightly changed since then, however, with Gallagher flourishing in Spain under the watchful eye of Diego Simeone. Meanwhile, Sandro Tonali has fully kicked on following his lengthy time away from the pitch due to a gambling ban.
Newcastle's midfield is currently stacked and a lot depends on the future of Sean Longstaff as to whether Howe will seek to strengthen in the middle of the park before September. Should the academy graduate depart, with Leeds United interested, the need for additional reinforcements in that area of the squad grows.
The likes of Joe White, Alfie Harrison and Travis Hernes will all be given their chance to impress this summer but it remains to be seen if any of the young trio have what it takes to break into the first-team on Tyneside.
To add to the doubts regarding Gallagher, Simeone wants to keep the star at the Wanda Metropolitano. Everton, Nottingham Forest and Aston Villa have also been linked with the player.
Instead, the immediate focus for Newcastle is strengthening at both ends of the pitch. A move for Hugo Ekitike appears to be picking up speed, with United assessing whether they can lure the Frenchman away from Eintracht Frankfurt.
An £86m release clause makes life difficult for the Magpies, who also need funds to sign a new centre-back and a goalkeeper. Personal terms could also prove tricky with Ekitike.
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