Newcastle United

Newcastle United

Premier League • England

Newcastle now have Arsenal to keep at arm’s length in race for £58m attacking midfielder

Eder Militao, Gabriel Jesus, Lucas Paqueta and Casemiro

Newcastle United are attempting to reunite Bruno Guimaraes with Lucas Paqueta – but will have to beat Arsenal to a second Lyon signing, a report has claimed.

Bruno Guimaraes was the most expensive signing of Newcastle’s first transfer window since their Saudi-backed takeover. The January addition had to be patient at first, but is beginning to get more gametime.

That said, there could still be an evolution ongoing in the kind of territory he plays in. At this stage, it is unclear whether Newcastle will be spending big again or not in the summer.

However, plenty of expectation remains. Therefore, there have been several reports about the kind of players that could strengthen their squad.

To add to their four permanent January signings, they may want a new first-choice goalkeeper. There is also a feeling that another striker and an extra defender could arrive.

But the spine of the team could be bolstered further with the signing of someone like Lucas Paqueta. The attacking midfielder has contributed nine goals and six assists from 37 games this season.

He has recently been revealed to be on their transfer radar ahead of the summer. Giving their own slant on proceedings, the Newcastle Chronicle are reporting that they are up against Arsenal for his signature.

The same happened with Bruno Guimaraes, when Newcastle won the battle. If their interest in Paqueta is genuine, they would be hoping for a repeat six months later.

Lucas Paqueta transfer costs revealed

Lucas Paqueta on the ball for Lyon

To get their man, though, they would likely have to spend even bigger. The report claims Lyon want a fee in the region of £58m for Paqueta.

What’s more, the Brazilian would be holding out for wages worth £180,000 per week. The costs associated with the deal have even put off Paris Saint-Germain, it is claimed.

But Newcastle can pay whatever they like for targets after their own Middle Eastern takeover. Arsenal also remain in the hunt.

Newcastle head of recruitment Steve Nickson has watched Paqueta on several occasions. What’s more, the former AC Milan man can retain contact with Bruno Guimaraes.

In fact, Paqueta even attended a recent Newcastle match against Southampton to watch his compatriot and ex-clubmate – who went on to score his first goal for the club.

The foundations may be in place for a summer union. However, the competition from Arsenal – who may have European football on offer next season, whereas Newcastle will not in the immediate future, even if their plan is to get there one day – could cause issues.

For now, Paqueta is under contract with Lyon until 2025.

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