Newcastle are preparing a second bid for Serie A star Duvan Zapata, according to Portuguese journalist Pedro Almeida.
The Magpies have been interested in the Atalanta man all winter transfer window, but saw a first bid knocked back for the Colombian striker.
However, they are ready to go back in with a second offer, this time a loan deal with an obligation to buy.
Perhaps worryingly from a financial point of view, however, Newcastle are thought to be ready to set that obligation at a whopping 40 million euros (33.5 million pounds).
Newcastle United realizó una segunda oferta por Duván Zapata, delantero del Atalanta, reporta @pedrogva6
En la misma se negocia un préstamo por seis meses con opción obligatoria de compra por 40MDE pic.twitter.com/sURqhvbj1k
— Luis Omar Tapia (@LuisOmarTapia) January 22, 2022
Given that Zapata is now 30 years old, it seems a little shortsighted from the Tyneside club, who have already added 30 year old Chris Wood to their side.
On the other hand, it is experience that will get them away from the very real prospect of relegation from the top flight this season, and clubs are well aware of their financial power, so will be likely willing to hold them to ransom.
What other business needs doing?
Newcastle are also thought to be in talks with Bayer Leverkusen over the potential signing of Mitchell Bakker, with a 16 million pound fee touted.
However, they seem to have made little progress at centre-back, arguably where their need is greatest, with links to Sevilla’s Diego Carlos having gone cold in recent days.
Meanwhile, the likes of Dele Alli, Jesse Lingard and Bernd Leno have all been linked with moves up north, either on loan or permanently, with Arsenal already seeking a replacement for Leno.
It could yet be a busy final week on Tyneside, and realistically it has to be should they wish to stay in the top flight.
