Transfer talk – Defender on his way for medical, two strikers in talks & Sels sold? – 25/07/2018

A round up of all of today’s news & transfer gossip:

• As confirmed by Sky Sports in the last few moments, Newcastle have now activated Fabian Schar’s £3m release clause – with the Swiss centre-back now due on Tyneside today to complete his medical – Full story here. 
• According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are now ‘pressing ahead’ in their attempts to sign Japan international striker Yoshinori Muto – with the Mainz striker in talks over a potential £9m move to St James’ Park – Full story here. 
• Following claims that Newcastle are now in talks over a £9m deal to sign  Yoshinori Muto, The Mail also report that ‘progress’ has now been made over a ‘loan swap deal’ involving Salomon Rondon and Dwight Gayle  – Full story here. 
• According to Sky Sports, Newcastle United goalkeeper Matz Sels is now on the verge of completing a move to France, with him expected to seal a £3.5m move to Strasbourg ‘later today’ – Full story here. 

• Following last night’s game, Rafa Benitez has offered an emphatic response when asked by Sky Sports if Newcastle could head into the new season without any more signing, stating ‘We WILL do something and we HAVE to do something!’ – Full story here.
• Thankfully, It’s been a slightly more eventful day on the transfer front for Newcastle United, with it emerging that Benitez is now pursuing deals for THREE other players following the seemingly imminent arrival of Fabian Schar – Full story here. 
• Speaking after our 2-2 draw with Hull City, Rafa Benitez has admitted that Florian Lejeune may have a ‘serious’ injury that the club must now assess – explaining why he was absent from Tuesday night’s pre-season friendly – Full story here. 
• The Chronicle’s Mark Douglas has admitted that Chelsea may cash in on Tammy Abraham for  ‘around £15m‘ – a deal that may suit both Benitez AND Mike Ashley? – Full story here. 
• And finally, if Rafa really is restricted to loan deals this summer (with his budget believed to be very limited), here’s a few exciting options he may look to over the next few weeks of the transfer window – See all 10 here.