Eddie Howe has refused to rule out a Newcastle move for a player like Declan Rice after insisting they only want to sign ‘elite’ talent this summer.
The head coach says the club’s spending power will be dependent on Champions League qualification and they are currently working to differing budgets.
Either way, top of their list of priorities is what insiders call a ‘number six’, a holding midfielder with physicality, stamina and the ability to maintain possession.
West Ham’s Rice certainly fits the bill and he was outstanding during a 1-1 draw at St James’ Park in February.