NUFC now in 'advanced talks' to complete surprise striker signing - £9m fee - Report

According to the Daily Mail, Newcastle are now 'pressing ahead' in their attempts to sign Japan international striker Yoshinori Muto - with the Mainz striker in talks over a potential £9m move to St James' Park.

The 26-year-old was a part of Japan’s side who got through to the last 16 of this summer’s World Cup and is a player who’s been catching the eye in the Bundesliga over the last few seasons, scoring 20 and assisting 10 in 66 appearances.

This isn’t the first time we’ve been linked with a move for Muto, however this is a signing that would come slightly out of the blue - especially after Salomon Rondon has been described as Rafa's 'top target' over the last few weeks.

The Mail state a deal for the Venezuelan is still being discussed (suggesting both strikers could sign), but it seems like a £9m deal for Mainz striker Muto is now on the agenda.

Here's a snippet from their piece in the last few moments:

"Newcastle United are pressing ahead with a move for Japan international striker Yoshinori Muto.

"Talks are advancing for the 26-year-old, who impressed during the World Cup and Newcastle hope to reach an agreement for an initial £9million fee with his club Mainz."

https://twitter.com/MailSport/status/1022100419194118145

So, could both he and Rondon be heading to Newcastle this summer?

Time will tell, but it looks like things may be finally starting to pick up with just a few weeks left to do business.