Newcastle transfer news: Howe chasing surprise deal as towering midfielder signing is eyed

Newcastle are reportedly working on a deal to bring Marouane Fellaini back to the Premier League from China.

The Magpies have wasted little time in strengthening their squad, with Kieran Trippier already on board. The full-back has joined in the hope that Eddie Howe’s side can stave off the threat of relegation. They will then set about the task of joining the Premier League elite after the Saudi-backed takeover.

But Howe needs quality players during the current window to ensure they do not slip into the Championship. To that end, Newcastle are prepping a huge third offer for defender Sven Botman.

The Magpies though are also keen on more recruits. To that end, Howe has reportedly been given permission to make up to four signings this month.

As such, the Newcastle boss is also looking to strengthen his midfield and his attack. In terms of the strikeforce, they are hot on the trail of a promising young Stade Reims attacker, rated in the £30m bracket.

However, Howe also wants to strengthen his midfield options. And, as per La Dernière Heure, he is preparing a surprise move to bring Fellani back to the Premier League.

The Belgian paper claims Howe sees Fellaini as the ideal signing to build his side around. He feels he has the midfield presence and know-how needed to help the Magpies out of the current relegation predicament.

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Currently playing in China for Shandong Taishan, the former Manchester United and Everton man recently extended his deal to 2025.

Indeed, Fellaini is a major star in the Chinese Super League. With 10 goals and one assist this season, he’s a ‘major player’ in the CSL.

However, while he is happy in China, the report claims a return to the Premier League would tempt him.

Marouane Fellaini may follow Botman to Newcastle

Newcastle, meanwhile, are considering whether to make a third offer for Botman after a huge second bid for the player – reportedly worth £29.2m – was rejected by Lille.

The Netherlands Under-21 defender is well liked by Howe – but prising him from Lille is proving a difficult task.

Indeed, having seen an opening bid of around £25m rejected, Howe and Co remain undeterred.

Now, RMC Sport via Sport Witness, reports Newcastle have come back with a second approach worth £29.2m (€35m).

However, once again for the Magpies, that has fallen on deaf ears as far as Lille are concerned.

Now, the French outlet claims Newcastle are pondering whether to make a final offer worth £33.4m (€40m). The fee would comfortably smash Newcastle’s record money spent on a defender.

That currently stands at just £14.85m used to lure Jamal Lewis from Norwich back in summer 2020.

And should Lille accept the offer, Botman would emerge as second only to the rejuvenated Joelinton as Newcastle’s costliest-ever player.

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