NEWCASTLE have launched a club-record bid for Napoli winger Khvicha Kvaratskhelia, according to reports.
Eddie Howe is determined to bolster his squad this summer ahead of Newcastle’s long-awaited return to the Champions League.
AFPNewcastle have launched a bid for Kvaratskhelia[/caption]
The Magpies have already signed defensive midfielder Sandro Tonali in a £55million transfer from AC Milan.
But now Howe wants to add another attacker to his ranks.
And Kvaratskhelia has emerged as a top transfer target.
According to Italian outlet Corriere dello Sport, Newcastle have made an opening offer worth £82m for the winger – a club-record fee.
Napoli are yet to respond to the bid, but they are said to be reluctant to sell Kvaratskhelia this summer.
The Georgia international joined the Italian giants in a £10m transfer from Dinamo Batumi last summer.
He scored 14 goals and assisted 17 in 43 appearances across all competitions last summer and played a crucial role in helping Napoli to their first Serie A title in 33 years.
Kvaratskhelia’s impressive form attracted interest from some of Europe’s biggest clubs, including Chelsea and Paris Saint-Germain.
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Newcastle have also expressed an interest in signing Leicester winger Harvey Barnes.
The Foxes reportedly want £50m for the 25-year-old, but they could accept a lower fee.