Newcastle are close to signing Galatasaray defender Marcão with a deal entering the final stages of negotiations, according to a report in Turkey.
The transfer rumour mill has seen Newcastle linked with a number of defenders throughout the summer, but the latest is that a deal for the 24-year-old Brazilian is nearing completion.
Turkish newspaper Aksam report that the Magpies are closing in on Marcão in a deal worth €19m (£17m) with a 10% future sell on clause for Gala inserted into the contract. Newcastle had initially offered €22m, but the Turkish giants are insistent on the sell on fee being added in, which resulted in the adjusted fee.
Talks are now progressing 'positively' between the two clubs for the left-sided centre back - who only joined Galatasaray in January 2019 - and it is expected that the offer will be accepted, as Gala are eager to reinforce their squad with their own transfers before the window closes.
The reports follow on from speculation that began linking Marcão with a move to Tyneside at the weekend, with some noticing that the defender has recently followed Newcastle's official Instagram account. Make of that what you will.
Marcão had previously been linked with a move to Serie A with Atalanta and even with fellow Premier League side West Ham in March, before the coronavirus pandemic halted football. The Brazilian, yet to be capped by his country, would reinforce Steve Bruce's backline and allow him to comfortably play with three central defenders, which he did often last season.
Newcastle are also said to be close to finalising a loan deal for Arsenal's Rob Holding, meaning the Magpies would be able to enjoy a new look defence next season, should Marcão make his way to St. James' Park.
Marcão featured 39 times in all competitions for Galatasaray last season, six appearances of which came in the Champions League. At just 24, Newcastle could land themselves a competent centre back at a decent price.
Source : 90min