Transfer rumours: Newcastle move hijacked, Sunderland budget fears; Liverpool, Man United, Chelsea, Arsenal in headlines

The Magpies are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of a tilt at the Premier League, while how much SAFC have to spend could dictate which manager they are able to attract to the Stadium of Light.

Elsewhere, Manchester United feature hevaily in today’s media reports, as do Chelsea, Arsenal and Liverpool.

Here’s a round-up of the main stories making the headlines today.

German champions Bayern Munich have joined Manchester United and Chelsea in the race to sign Everton’s Belgian striker Romelu Lukaku. (Manchester Evening News)

Tottenham midfielder Christian Eriksen, 25, has spoken out on rumours linking him with Spanish giants Barcelona, admitting it would be hard to turn down a move to the Nou Camp. (Various)

Lyon striker Alexandre Lacazette, 20, says is open to the possibility of not playing for six months while waiting for Atletico Madrid’s transfer ban to expire. (ESPN FC)

Chelsea boss Antonio Conte still hopes to land experienced Juventus defender Leonardo Bonucci, 30. (The Sun)

Barcelona’s new manager Ernesto Valverde plans to make a fresh £45m bid to sign Arsenal defender Hector Bellerin. (Daily Mirror)

West Brom have been given a boost in their pursuit of Middlesbrough striker Alvaro Negredo, after the 31-year-old Spaniard said he wants to remain in the Premier League. (The Sun)

Manchester United’s Real Madrid-bound goalkeeper David de Gea will be replaced by either Joe Hart, Samir Handanovic or Gianluigi Donnarumma. (The Sun)

Alvaro Morata has emerged as Man United’s top transfer target as they aim to replace Zlatan Ibrahimovic as their main striker. (Various)

Pepe has agreed a deal to join PSG from Real Madrid on a free transfer in a two-year deal. (Various)

Lionel Messi has reportedly urged Barcelona bigwigs to consider signing Liverpool star Philippe Coutinho and Leicester ace Riyad Mahrez. (Various)

Aberdeen boss Derek McInnes is keen to move to Sunderland but wants reassurances over the transfer budget for next season. (Various)

Southampton are trying to hijack Newcastle’s move for Sporting Lisbon defender Ruben Semedo, as a potential replacement for Virgil van Dijk. (Daily Mirror)