Newcastle United are facing a Premier League battle to secure the signing of Burnley striker Andre Gray this summer, according to the Shields Gazette.
The newspaper claim on their website that the Magpies are hoping to swoop for the 26-year-old forward after contract talks between him and the Clarets stalled as a result of his demands.
However, they state that Premier League rivals West Ham, Everton and Tottenham are all still interested in making a move for the striker who has made the leap up from non-league to the top flight, with SkyBet yesterday naming the Hammers as favourites.
The Sun claim that the Wolverhampton born player is looking to secure a deal of £70,000-a-week, which would see Sean Dyche’s side smash their wage cap.
Midfielder Robbie Brady is currently their highest earner on £35,000-a-week, half of what Gray is asking for in the negotiations.
The striker is set to be out of contract next season, when Burnley risk losing him for nothing, so they could be forced to sell up this summer if they cannot come to a contractual agreement.
However, despite the precarious position the Claret’s find themselves in, the Shields Gazette claims they will still demand over £10million for his signing, with the club having rejected an offer from West Ham back in January.
The newspaper report that Newcastle are awaiting expected developments before making a formal move.
Gray made 36 appearances across all competitions last season, scoring 10 goals and notching up six assists as Burnley avoided the drop and earned themselves a 16th placed finish.