Newcastle could break their transfer record for 'big target' Raphinha, according to reports.
The Magpies have long been linked with the Barcelona winger and may have to fork out more than the club record £60million fee they gave Real Sociedad for Alexander Isak last summer.
Mundo Deportivo in Barcelona report that the Brazilian is one of Eddie Howe's big targets in the summer window, while the Newcastle Chronicle claim he could end up costing £70m.
To further back up reports, Spanish transfer insider Gerard Romero believes a verbal offer of £70m has already been sent.
Raphinha's return would be a familiar sight for Premier League fans, who saw him star for Leeds between 2020 and 2022.
He was then understood to be chased by both Arsenal and Chelsea, but in swooped Barca to agree a £50m deal.
With the club continuing to struggle financially, a profit on the winger would certainly be welcome, although it's claimed the player is keen to stay in Spain.
After joining from French side Rennes, Raphinha notched 17 goals and 12 assists in 65 league games for Leeds, before upping his output for Barcelona, managing 10 goals and 11 assists this season.
With a commanding lead at the top of the table, Raphinha will soon become a LaLiga champion, while he's also become a regular for his country, starting four out of Brazil's five 2022 World Cup games.
Newcastle already have a strong Brazilian contingent with Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton two of their standout players, and the team also appear certain to be able to offer Champions League football next season.
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