Newcastle enter ‘talks’ over late deal for long-term target – Report

According to L’Equipe, Newcastle have held talks with Lille about the possibility of signing midfielder Thiago Maia.

This may be a name Newcastle fans recognise now, with the 22-year-old Brazilian being heavily linked with a move to St James’ Park throughout the summer of 2018.

Nothing materialised, despite him being tipped to replace Mikel Merino 12 months ago, but French outlets L’Equipe claim we’ve now entered discussions with Lille in recent days over a potential deal.

It’s claimed that ‘nothing concrete’ is in place yet (and it’s also worth taking L’Equipe with a pinch of salt given some of their latest claims have proved to be wide of the mark), but with Isaac Hayden refusing to confirm whether he’ll stay and the likes of Colback and Saivet needing to be moved on, a move for Maia may be ‘one to watch’ over the coming four days.

Serie A side Genoa are also said to be interested, with it reported that they’ve made a £6m offer to sign him over the past few days.

Maia played 27 times times for Lille last season, helping them secure a 2nd place finish in Ligue 1 – seeing them qualify for the Champions League as a result.

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About Olly Hawkins

As a Junior Magpie since birth and season ticket holder, I eat, sleep and breathe all things NUFC! Here at the blog, I aim to bring you news, views, match reports and transfer exclusives as and when I get them.

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