Newcastle United are understood to be closing in on Manchester City midfielder Nico Gonzalez.
News broke last week that the Magpies had identified Gonzalez as a potential Bruno Guimaraes replacement. Sources at Newcastle quickly noted that the 24-year-old is one of several targets shortlisted.
However, after initially appearing hesitant to leave Man City, positive talks have been held over the last 24 hours. Toon chiefs are growing increasingly confident that a £50million fee will be agreed.
Gonzales - should he arrive - will slot straight into Matthias Jaissle’s midfield. Lewis Miley and Sean Steur started the Premier League opener against Liverpool but Newcastle were always keen to sign an experienced operator.
Newcastle United not done yet
In more positive news, the Magpies are likely not done yet in the transfer market. Jaissle is keen to add a No.10 to the squad that will fit into his 4-2-3-1 system.
Yoane Wissa produced his best performance in a Newcastle shirt at the weekend but is viewed as a centre-forward. Nick Woltemade and Joe Willock have played there recently but Jaissle wants a natural option to bolster his attack.
Gonzalez would become Newcastle’s sixth signing of the summer. He is also older than Lukas Hornicek by six months - making him the oldest new recruit so far.
Fabrizio Romano confirms signings
Italian sports journalist Fabrizio Romano has claimed on social media that Newcastle and Man City struck a verbal agreement earlier today. He wrote: “Newcastle reach verbal agreement with Man City for Nico González, here we go! Understand fee will be £47million plus £3million add-ons, green light from the player after progress revealed overnight. Nico, ready to join NUFC project where he will be a key player.”