Newcastle United have submitted an offer for Lille enforcer Thiago Maia, according to Le 10 Sport.
The French news outlet claims that Rafa Benitez has tabled a bid for the 21-year-old Brazilian, however Lille have rejected the offer and have emphatically stated that he is not for sale at any price.
It is not clear how much Newcastle offered the Ligue 1 club for the left-footed midfielder, who can play in defensive or attacking roles in the centre of the pitch.
Good move for Newcastle?
Thiago Maia has a lot of potential and his first season in European football was quite a success.
The Brazil Under-23 international will only go from strength to strength in the next few years and he would have been a handy addition to Newcastle’s midfield if someone like Mikel Merino was to quit St James’ Park this summer.
The former Santos star is also extremely versatile and would make a good squad player for anyone who wants to sign him.
He can play in attacking or defensive midfield roles and can also slot in at left-back if needed.
This is Futbol rating 8/10
Likely to happen?
Lille have really put their foot down after this bid went in from Newcastle, stating that he is not going anywhere for any price.
Obviously everyone in football has their price and Lille would cash in if a big enough offer was made.
But given how tight-fisted Mike Ashley is, there’s little chance that Benitez will be handed the funds to make a serious offer for Thiago Maia.
This is Futbol rating 2/10