Luke Edwards believes Newcastle are pursuing a deal for former Tottenham striker Fernandeo Llorente.
This comes from his latest transfer ‘exclusive’ for the Telegraph – which claims we’re finally set to make a bid for Hull City’s Jarrod Bowen.
Edwards admits he’s yet to have it confirmed by club sources that Llorente is a definite target of Steve Bruce’s, but insists his name has been ‘doing the rounds’ – suggesting the 6ft 3′ Spaniard is being tipped to arrive on Tyneside this month.
Here’s what he’s had to say during his latest piece on all things NUFC:
‘Another name that has been doing the rounds in relation to a move to Newcastle is former Swansea City and Tottenham Hotspur striker Fernando Llorente, who could be leaving Napoli just a few months after signing for the Italian club.
‘Telegraph Sport has been unable to confirm he is on Newcastle’s shortlist with anyone directly connected to the club, but he would fit the mould of striker Bruce has been looking at.‘
Llorente – who’s currently at Napoli – has experienced in the Premier League after spells with Swansea and Spurs, however it would be a slight surprise to see Mike Ashley sanction a move for a 34-year-old veteran.
A loan deal or short-term contract at a cut-price fee may appeal, however – especially if Bruce believes the former Juventus man could ease pressure on Joelinton in that lone striker role.
Llorente has scored four times for Napoli this season, but has been limited to just four starts in all competitions – hence his eagerness to move on this month.
During his time in England, he scored 15 goals in 35 games for Swansea and managed 13 goals and 6 assists in 66 games for Spurs – although the majority of those appearances came as a substitute.
