Newcastle have identified Joao Palhinha as an option in their search for an experienced midfielder to replace Bruno Guimaraes and Sandro Tonali.
Talks continue over a move for Marseille's Pierre-Emile Hojbjerg, and a deal worth around £13 million could accelerate over the next 48 hours. The 31-year-old Dane has indicated he is keen on the move, and new head coach Matthias Jaissle sees him as a potential organiser at the base of his young midfield.
There is still work to do on that transfer, and alternatives have been identified, including Palhinha. Aston Villa are also interested in the 31-year-old Bayern Munich midfielder, who looks set to return to the Premier League this summer after a loan spell at Tottenham last season.
Newcastle like the Portugal international, who fits the profile of an older head to complement new arrivals such as 18-year-old Sean Steur and 20-year-old Aladji Bamba. Sporting director Ross Wilson is prioritising a midfield addition and a new full-back, with further signings dependent on Jaissle's assessment of his squad's needs.
Willock and Pope set to leave
Midfielder Joe Willock will join Besiktas if they meet Newcastle's asking price, with sources believing progress is likely. Goalkeeper Nick Pope has also been told he can leave, and while no offer has yet arrived, Ipswich and Celtic are both said to be monitoring his situation.
Miley fit, Livramento to miss opener
Newcastle expect midfielder Lewis Miley to be fit for the season opener against Liverpool after recovering from a broken leg, but the game will come too soon for Tino Livramento. The England defender is in the United States continuing his rehabilitation from a calf injury sustained on England duty that ruled him out of the World Cup, and he could return on the second weekend of the campaign at Tottenham.
