Gabriel Barbosa is eager to join Newcastle United this summer, according to The Chronicle.
Lee Ryder claims that the Premier League is a ‘dream move’ for the Brazilian international, who has bagged 103 goals and 28 assists in 158 appearances for Flamengo.
He’s been linked with a move to Tyneside for some time, with The Chronicle revealing that we held brief talks in January after being offered a loan deal which included an option to buy for £17m.
The piece states that he’s someone head scout Steve Nickson is well aware of, however it’s believed Eddie Howe has a number of options he’d rather pursue before the South American.
Armando Broja and Dominic Calvert-Lewin have both been heavily linked, but it’s said that Barbosa’s representatives are keen to reopen discussions with Newcastle after holding talks with the club earlier this year.
According to those close to Barbosa, the 25-year-old has a ‘real hunger’ to silence his critics in Europe, having previously struggled during brief spells at Inter Milan and Benfica.
He has an impressive record in Brazil – along with five goals in 18 appearances for his country – but I get the feeling this may be an agent-driven story that they want to happen much more than Newcastle?
Not a bad option, decent age, and fee. I’m sure Eddie would get the best out of him. Van see why we might be pursuing others though.
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