Franculino Dju linked with Newcastle after scouting mission last season

Back in April, it was reported that Newcastle United had been watching Midtjylland forward Franculino Dju.

A report from Danish outlet Campo claimed that Newcastle had scouts in the stands watching the 22-year-old as Midtjylland took on Aarhus.

Franculino racked up an impressive 22 goals and three assists in 34 outings for the Danish side last season.

Newcastle have recently announced the signing of Franculino's Guinea-Bissau compatriot Afner Cá, and a new report claims the Magpies are back on the trail of the Midtjylland star.

Franculino Dju is a goal machine

A report from TEAMtalk claims Newcastle and Leeds are keen on the striker, but the Danish side are set to drive a hard bargain.

Midtjylland insist that for a bid to be accepted for Franculino, it must break the current Danish transfer record, but that currently only stands at €25 million (£21 million).

Newcastle could, then, pick up a young striker with an eye for goal for around £25 million if they are able to beat the competition to his signature.

The forward has continued his goalscoring form in pre-season too, with goals against Cardiff City and OB already.

Newcastle aren't in the market for a striker

Newcastle aren't thought to be looking for a striker this summer, which gives us plenty of reason to doubt this report already.

When you combine that with the fact that the story originates from TEAMtalk, we are highly sceptical.

However, the fact that Newcastle were reportedly watching him back in April does swing this one back towards being believable, and if we could acquire the 22-year-old for sub-£30 million, then why not?

Our big concern is, if this is true and we are interested, can he make that step up from the Danish league to the Premier League? Is he ready?

Rumour Rating: 5/10 - We can't make our minds up where we fall on this one. There's plenty to believe and plenty to doubt. Our rating hasn't moved on this one yet.