Newcastle now leading the chase to sign €20m Mourinho midfield outcast from Roma

Newcastle United are reportedly leading the chase to Roma midfielder Jordan Veretout, who is struggling for game time at the Olympic Stadium.

The Frenchman looks destined to quit the Italian side this summer, with Premier League duo Newcastle and Tottenham both showing an interest along with current Serie A leaders AC Milan.

Jose Mourinho is already said to be banking on being without the 29-year-old next season. To that end, clubs are monitoring the player’s situation ahead of a potential summer swoop.

And Thursday’s Rome edition of Correire dello Sport backs up those exit rumours. It states Milan’s interest but that the midfielder, who has previously been valued at €20million, is wanted ‘above all by Newcastle’.

The Magpies are expected to splash the cash this summer after their big-money takeover. With that in mind, Veretout could be a good squad option for Eddie Howe.

It would not be his first in England either after he played for Aston Villa in the 2015-16 season. Veretout played 25 times in the Premier League that season before being shipped off on loan to St Etienne. He then joined Fiorentina permanently.

Newcastle target in no rush over future

Meanwhile, Leeds midfielder Kalvin Phillips is not likely to rush into any decision on his future with everything still on the table, claims a report.

The midfielder remains a man in demand despite a season wrecked by injury. Indeed, he last played for Leeds back on December 5, when a torn hamstring has kept him sidelined ever since. During that time, Leeds have struggled and failed to pull clear of relegation danger.

Jan Oblak to Newcastle this summer as Atletico contract not agreed yet

Jan Oblak is a target for Newcastle this summer as Atletico Madrid contract expiring next year for Slovenia goalkeeper

Indeed, Sunday’s vital 2-1 win over Norwich was their first win in eight games. It also will have come as much-needed relief for new boss Jesse Marsch.

Despite that, Gary Neville still has a serious warning for Leeds over their hopes of avoiding the drop.

The good news for Leeds is that Phillips is slotted in for a return to action after the international break. Alongside Liam Cooper, the pair should make their returns to action in the clash against Southampton on Saturday April 2.

His return will revive Leeds hopes of avoiding the drop. Furthermore, the division Leeds find themselves in next season is likely to play a big part in Phillips’ future decision.

Prem clubs queuing up for Phllips

Indeed, the likes of Liverpool and Manchester United are among his suitors. More recently, West Ham have seen a approach fail, while talk has also emerged of interest from Aston Villa and Newcastle.

With a deal due to expire in 2024, Leeds face a nervous wait to see what the future lies with Phillips.

His agent has previously indicated a willingness to stay and sign a new deal for Leeds.

However, there appears no rush on Phillips’ part and the Daily Mail claim he will make a firm decision at the end of the season.
READ MORE: Steve Bruce linked to exciting reunion with Newcastle United duo