If reports in France are correct, Newcastle United target Lucas Paqueta could suddenly be available for a bargain fee.
Media Foot have claimed that Lyon want £34million for the Brazilian, which is a lot cheaper than his initial valuation.
It was previously claimed that Paqueta would cost around £50million. That fee would have made him Newcastle’s most expensive signing ever. However, this new report suggests he is available for much less.
Whether the figure is accurate or not remains to be seen. But it is certainly intriguing, with Toon fans desperate to see Paqueta at St James’ Park.
£34m asking price could tempt Newcastle to bid for Paqueta
According to the Northern Echo, Newcastle are looking to find out if reports of a £34million asking price are true. They add that the Magpies would most likely make a move for the attacking midfielder if it really is the case.
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However, the report adds that Newcastle will definitely face competition for Paqueta if he is available for £34million. The Northern Echo state that Arsenal would be the favourites.
The Gunners are being heavily linked with a move for the 24-year-old, in a move that would devastate Toon fans. For a lot of supporters, he is the dream signing.
It would be gutting to see him in an Arsenal shirt. It would also give Gunners fans the chance to get one over us after we nabbed Bruno Guimaraes in January.
Reports of Paqueta being available for £34million surely have to be wide of the mark. He’s got three years left on his contract and is a Brazil international.
It’s also the same amount that Lyon turned down from us at the start of the year.
It’s pure fantasy at the moment, but tenuous speculation of Paqueta’s asking price being slashed has only enhanced the Toon Army’s desire to see him reunited with his best friend Bruno.
However, others will argue that he isn’t what we need. Newcastle have £50million left to spend this summer, and need a striker and a winger. It’s difficult to see Paqueta fitting in to that too, even if he is suddenly a lot cheaper.