Newcastle have reportedly opened discussions with Lille over a deal for midfielder Thiago Maia.
According to French publication L’Equipe, cited by the Shields Gazette, the club have approached the Ligue 1 side and are in negotiations over a proposed deal, with Lille valuing the player at £16.5 million.
The exciting Brazilian is also wanted by Serie A side Genoa, who have recently had a bid turned down for the 22-year-old.
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Steve Bruce currently has the likes of Jonjo Shelvey, Sean Longstaff, Isaac Hayden, Jack Colback and Ki Sung-yeung available in the middle of the park, so another central midfielder would be greatly welcomed at St James’ Park.
Maia, who featured for his country at the 2016 Olympic Games, is regarded by many as a future star after progressing through the youth ranks at Santos.
Brazil have a knack of bringing through exciting prospects in midfield, and Maia’s ability to dictate play from deep and break the lines with his range of passing is what attracted Lille’s interest.
The 22-year-old has since become a regular in France, turning out 58 times in two campaigns.
In today’s market, a £16.5 million fee looks a shrewd deal for someone of Maia’s ability and one that should be pursued in the final days of the window.
Maia’s willingness to get on the ball and retain possession, as well as his ability to break up play, could make him one of the signings of the summer at just £16.5 million, however, the Magpies are running out of time to get a deal over the line.
