But United's plans to complete a double swoop on the Eredivisie club has ended because Luuk de Jong is heading for Borussia Monchengladbach.
The Brazilian defender has been watched by Chelsea and Tottenham, but the 24-year-old wants to go to St James' Park.
Newcastle dispatched a delegation of managing director Derek Llambias and secretary Lee Charnley to Holland in early July to open discussions.
And the prospective transfer has now moved on a stage with the Magpies waiting to hear if their opening bid will be accepted by Steve McClaren's side.
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