Newcastle United are looking to beat heavy Premier League competition for the signature of Portuguese sensation William Carvalho, according to a report in Portuguese paper O Jogo.
The Sporting Lisbon star has a reported £39million release clause in his contract, which means Rafa Benitez is going to have to spend big to secure his services.
Carvalho, 25, scored twice in the Portuguese league this season and registered three assists. The midfielder is very highly rated and attracted Premier League attention through good performances in Portugal’s European Championship winning campaign.
Despite having a fantastic season in the Championship, Benitez is looking to strengthen his squad and the competitive midfielder is seen as a key target for the manager.
It could be a very busy summer for Newcastle in the transfer window this summer, with Benitez aiming for a couple of big-name signings before the Premier League season starts.
Carvalho is an experienced player having over 100 appearances for Sporting and 31 caps for his country.
Reports suggest that Sporting will not demand £39million and will maybe reduce the price slightly, but Newcastle will have to hold off opposition for his signature with West Brom also keen to sign him.
