Newcastle: £34m striker 'emerges as target' at St James' Park | OneFootball

Newcastle United are one of several clubs interested in signing Benfica striker Goncalo Ramos this summer, according to journalist Dean Jones.

The 21-year-old has been linked with a move away from the Portuguese giants in recent weeks with St. James’ Park touted as a potential destination for him.

What is the latest news involving Ramos?

A recent report from Record (via Sport Witness) has claimed that Newcastle are the ‘most advanced’ club in the race for Ramos’ signature despite interest from Paris Saint-Germain.

It’s claimed that the Magpies are finalising their offer of over €30 million (£25.3m) for the Portugal Under-21 international, who reportedly caught the eye of Eddie Howe in the Eusebio Cup during pre-season.

Benfica are believed to be open to negotiating with Ramos’ potential suitors despite already losing Darwin Nunez during the current transfer window and want €40m (£34m) to sanction his sale.

Fellow Premier League outfit Wolverhampton Wanderers have also been credited with an interest in the youngster, though, as they look for cover and competition for Raul Jimenez.

What has Jones said about Ramos?

Jones confirmed to GiveMeSport that Ramos has ‘emerged as a target’ for Newcastle and that Benfica are ‘open to letting him leave’ with September’s deadline fast approaching.

He said: “Ramos has emerged as a target. I’m told that Benfica are open to letting him leave, and the manager is happy for him to be available.

“So, he’s been touted around England basically in the past couple of weeks, and there’s a few clubs that are taking a nibble at that interest, and Newcastle was one of them.”

Would Ramos be a good signing?

Ramos registered a respectable 12 goal contributions in 46 appearances last season, largely playing second-fiddle to Liverpool’s latest acquisition Nunez.

However, the 6 foot 1 ace has started the current campaign in blistering form, racking up four goals and three assists in his opening four games across all competitions for Benfica.

Howe could view Ramos, therefore, as the ideal candidate to provide strength in depth up front alongside Callum Wilson and Chris Wood.

It remains to be seen if Newcastle make a formal offer for Ramos, but it seems as though he could be a player who elevates the ambitious club to new heights at this stage of their development.