According to The Telegraph, Steve Bruce is now hoping to make Manchester United centre back Axel Tuanzebe his first summer signing.
Luke Edwards’ ‘exclusive’ confirms that we are pushing to sign the former England U21 international, with Man Utd now happy to allow the defender to leave as they close in on a deal for Real Madrid star Raphael Varane.
Bruce has actually worked with the 23-year-old previously, having him on loan during his previous spell at Aston Villa.
The report also states that we have discussed both a loan and permanent transfer for Tuanzebe, however a temporary deal currently seems ‘more likely at this stage’ due to our restricted budget.
On that subject, Edwards’ piece for The Telegraph states that Joe Willock could yet seal a permanent transfer back to Tyneside.
He claims that we are not only ‘hopeful’ he’ll return, but could BUY the 21-year-old talent after whispers from Arsenal suggested they are now looking to raise funds for new recruits of their own.
Whether we have the money to make that happen is a different matter, however it seems we are desperate to have him back in any way possible – whether that’s on another loan deal or via a permanent transfer.
It’s thought that we haven’t put a deadline on talks, but Bruce is eager to get an answer ASAP from Mikel Arteta regarding his availability – which has come into question after he was left out of their latest pre-season friendly.
The report also states that Conor Gallagher remains a loan target as Bruce looks to add TWO midfielders to his ranks, however it seems we are facing stiff competition from Crystal Palace and Leeds.
