Newcastle United ready to battle Man Utd for big money Serie A ace, Magpies set to axe £5m man
Newcastle United are hard at work behind the scenes, as they continue to prepare for next Tuesday's clash against Everton.
The Magpies head into the game with five new signings on the books, and it will be fascinating to see which new players are thrown straight into the first time, and how they get on in their first test against Frank Lampard's Toffees.
Among Newcastle's new signings is full-back Matt Targett, who has joined on loan from Aston Villa. Discussing his move to St James' Park, the former Southampton ace said: “Well, you look at it from afar, and you see all the players they've been linked with, the new owners and the project, it's all exciting,
“It's been a bit hectic, really. I found out last night. I was back down south with my family, and had to travel back up to Birmingham. I got a phone call from my agent saying 'we need you up here by tomorrow morning’.
“I also had a brief phone call with (head coach Eddie Howe) yesterday evening, and said he was looking forward to working with me. The team has quality, and I'm sure we've got enough to stay in the league. I'm always happy to play. I'll give my all for the club.”
He added: “About three or four years ago, I was linked with Newcastle – and I was about to get on a plane from Southampton!
“Even at the time then, I just didn't feel I was ready, but, now with the experiences I've had, I feel like I'm in a good place.”
Take a look at all the latest stories from the Premier League, as the reaction to Monday's enthralling transfer deadline day continues:
“It's been a bit hectic, really. I found out last night. I was back down south with my family, and had to travel back up to Birmingham. I got a phone call from my agent saying 'we need you up here by tomorrow morning’.
5. van Basten takes pop at Burnley
Ex-Netherlands star Marco van Basten has revealed his shock at Burnley signing striker Wout Weghorst from VfL Wolfsburg. He's claimed the Clarets are "going to be relegated" and also criticised the player's ball retention ability. (Sport Witness) Photo: Stuart Franklin
6. Roma want Gunners duo
Roma are said to be eyeing up a double swoop for Arsenal duo Ashley Maitland-Niles and Granit Xhaka. The duo, who are believed to be keenly admired by Roma boss Jose Mourinho, could be sold in a £25m package. (Corriere dello Sport) Photo: Stuart MacFarlane
7. Reds fancied to land Raphinha
Liverpool have been named as the favourites to sign Leeds United star Raphinha in the summer, ahead of Bayern Munich and Man Utd. However, at 7/1, the deal is clearly far from a forgone conclusion. (Various) Photo: DOUGLAS MAGNO
8. Leeds unwilling to sell Summerville
HSV Hamburg's deadline day move for Leeds United starlet Crysencio Summerville is said to have collapsed due to the Whites being unable to find a replacement. The German side are said to have lacked the financial resources to persuade the Whites to sell. (24Hamburg) Photo: Stu Forster