Newcastle United have a chance of signing midfielder Dennis Praet from Italian club Sampdoria next summer for a near-£18million fee, according to Calcio Mercato.
The Italian outlet claims that the Magpies are interested in signing the 23-year-old, but that a January deal will not be possible.
It is understood that a deal could be on the cards next summer as the Belgian has a £17.8million release clause that kicks in at the end of the season.
The report details that Sampdoria are renowned for being a selling club and could lose one of their key players next summer.
The Northern Echo have claimed that Rafael Benitez would be willing to move for Praet in January after failed attempt last summer, but latest reports are suggesting that a deal may not be feasible until further down the line.
Good move for Newcastle?
Newcastle should be looking to strengthen their team as they want to establish themselves back in the top flight and Praet looks like he would be a good addition.
The central midfielder is a well rounded player that has dropped into a deeper position after starting his career further forward.
He is a technically gifted player that is an ever-present in a Sampdoria side that are currently sixth in the league table.
Praet has three assists in 10 games so far season and has the potential to become the latest Belgian talent to light up the Premier League.
However, the only reservation is that Newcastle already have some quality options in the centre of the park and should perhaps prioritise spending big money elsewhere first.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10
Likely to happen?
Any potential Newcastle attempt for a January swoop appear to be off the table, but a move next summer is certainly on the cards.
Praet has been with Sampdoria since 2016 and the midfielder could move close to a Premier League switch if he continues to impress in Serie A.
Newcastle are clearly keen on the player following their firm interest recently and should be able to bring the player to St James’ Park next summer if they still want him.
This Is Futbol rating: 7/10