Newcastle United are set to reignite their pursuit of Torino midfielder Afriyie Acquah this summer, according to Ghana Soccernet.
The African football website claim that the Premier League club are set to rival Champions League finalists Juventus for the signature of the enforcer as a transfer tug-of-war gathers pace.
Ghana Soccernet report that Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez made enquiries as to the potential availability of the Ghana 25-year-old last season and the Spaniard could re-kindle his efforts.
It is said that Newcastle are ready to meet the player’s £8million asking price.
Acquah made 22 appearances in all competitions for Torino last season, contributing two goals, and is widely regarded as one of the best combative midfielders in the Italian top flight.
But Benitez is keen to bring Acquah’s remarkable work-rate and energy to the Premier League this summer, as he searches for quality reinforcements ahead of next season.
The Ghana international still has two years left to run on his current deal, but could be available for a reasonable price with Torino demanding a fee of £8million for his services.
However, Newcastle could find it tough to compete alongside Juventus, who would simply require Acquah to make the switch across Turin, with Torino located in the same city as the Italian champions.
But both sides will find it tough to plead their case to the midfielder in the coming weeks, as he is set to be involved with the Ghana national side as they take on USA and Mexico next month.