The latest transfer talk from Newcastle United ahead of the summer transfer window.

Newcastle United are reportedly ready to rekindle their interest in Benfica defender Antonio Silva almost two years after the Magpies were said to have had an offer rejected for the Portugal international.

The 22-year-old broke into the Primeira Liga giants’ senior setup during the summer of 2022 and made his first-team debut alongside current Nottingham Forest centre-back Morato in a 3-0 win at Boavista during the first fortnight of the season. A new contract had been agreed within weeks containing a buyout clause of around £100m and Silva has not looked back since making his Champions League bow in a 2-0 win against Maccabi Haifa just days later.

Already a Portuguese league and League Cup winner, Silva has made over 180 appearances for Benfica and has earned 20 senior caps for Portugal after making his international bow alongside the likes of Bruno Fernandes, Nuno Mendes and Vitinha in a 4-0 win against Nigeria almost four years ago.

His progress reportedly captured the attention of Barcelona, Manchester United and Newcastle two years ago and reports in Portugal have now claimed the Magpies will reignite their efforts to sign the defender this summer as they look to boost their defensive ranks. News is awaited over the future of United stalwart Fabian Schar as he enters the final weeks of his current deal at the club - although Eddie Howe has suggested talks will be held with the former Switzerland international’s representatives over the coming days.

Portuguese news outlet A Bola have now reported Benfica’s relationship with Silva has deteriorated in recent months and explained the defender has felt ‘overtaken and unsupported’ as contract talks have stalled. However, Record have also reported Benfica president Rui Costa is keen to resolve the situation and offer a new deal to the centre-back - despite conceding Jose Mourinho’s impending departure to Real Madrid has complicated the situation. Should any offer be rejected, there is a suggestion Newcastle and a number of other clubs are positioning themselves to make a firm move to sign Silva - although any move could well have to wait until after this summer’s World Cup as the defender is keen to focus on his involvement with Portugal at the tournament in North America.

Your next Newcastle United read: Kieran Trippier goes public on Yoane Wissa struggles - makes bold Newcastle United prediction