Newcastle plan five elite signings with PL and European options shortlisted - The Telegraph

In his latest 'exclusive' for The Telegraph, North-East reporter Luke Edwards has been discussing Newcastle's transfer plans - revealing those on our summer shortlist and a few names who won't be signing at St James' Park.

It's his understanding that we'll target FIVE elite signings to upgrade several areas of the first team, with Eddie Howe also keen to add strength in depth to cope with the demands of European football.

A host of names are mentioned in the piece. A fresh bid is imminent for James Maddison - who remains a top target of Howe's. Declan Rice and Mason Mount have also been 'discussed', but moves for either seem unlikely due to demands in excess of £200,000-per-week; figures that would smash our current wage structure.

Other Premier League players of interest include Arsenal's Kieran Tierney, Man Utd's Scott McTominay and Chelsea's Conor Gallagher, although it's currently unclear if we'll launch bids.

Interestingly, The Telegraph report that we're keeping a close eye on a host of Chelsea players who could be axed this summer, but there's fears our 'big six' rivals could demand silly fees should Newcastle come calling, suggesting that 'Saudi tax' still exists.

A series of overseas talents are also mentioned. Nice midfielder Khephren Thuram has been shortlisted by our recruitment team, while brother Marcus Thuram - set to leave Borrusia Monchegladbach on a free - and Bayer Leverkusen's Moussa Diaby remain on our list of European targets.

However, two names who are not in our plans - despite recent links - are Raphinha and Neymar, with Luke Edwards insisting that neither Brazilian will be joining Bruno or Joelinton on Tyneside.