Newcastle have been handed a blow in their pursuit of striker Cenk Tosun after Besiktas said they will not consider offers under £20million, according to Turkish Football.
The Turkish outlet claim that Newcastle are among several sides who have jetted out to watch Tosun closely, with Besiktas braced for offers in January.
The club are now reported to have said they will refuse any offer under £20million, in an attempt to warn off potential buyers in the winter window.
Besiktas are said to be operating with a view to sell Tosun in the summer, but do not want to lose him half-way through the season without a suitable replacement.
The Turkish international has been in brilliant goalscoring form for his club this season, netting 10 goals in 18 appearances so far, including four in five Champions League matches.
Good move for Newcastle United?
If Newcastle can secure Tosun for around £20million, then this would seemingly be a good deal for the Magpies.
Tosun is in red-hot form this season, on course to scoring 20+ goals, exactly what Newcastle are crying out for right now.
Joselu has disappointed since his £5million move from Stoke in the summer, and Benitez seems intent on leaving Aleksandar Mitrovic out of his plans.
Newcastle desperately need firepower up front, and if they can secure a deal for Tosun, then they must hope that he continues scoring goals for fun in the Premier League.
This is Futbol rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
This move would seem to essentially hinge on whether a takeover of Newcastle is completed in time for the January window.
If Mike Ashley is still in charge, then there is no way that Benitez would be able to spend £20million on one player.
If a takeover is completed, the new owners will no doubt back Benitez in the transfer window and make the funds available to bring in Tosun.
This is Futbol rating: 5/10