Newcastle submit offer for Sporting Lisbon's Luis Suarez - Report

Reports linking Newcastle United with Sporting Lisbon's Luis Suarez just aren't going away.

Back in March, it was claimed that Newcastle and Liverpool were battling it out for the free-scoring Colombian, then we saw reports last week claiming we'd made an enquiry.

A few days on, the Portuguese media are at it again, taking things a step further regarding our reported interest in the 28-year-old.

Suarez 'offer' reported in Portugal 

According to Record, Newcastle have now submitted an offer for Sporting's Luis Suarez.

The Portuguese outlet reports that Newcastle have intensified their interest in recent weeks, although our opening 'bid' is thought to fall below Lisbon's asking price.

Record states that Sporting are asking any interested parties to meet the striker's £69m release clause or look elsewhere, suggesting they are unwilling to negotiate.

Suarez has bagged an outstanding 36 goals and nine assists in all competitions this season, netting five in 12 Champions League outings, and is considered a vital player given the way he has stepped up following the sale of Viktor Gyokeres last summer.

Why a move to Newcastle feels unlikely 

Not only do the Portuguese media have a VERY mixed history when it comes to Newcastle United transfer links, but there are a few elements to this story that don't quite add up.

Newcastle may be looking to shop in Europe this summer, rather than push for more 'Premier League proven' premiums, yet it seems unlikely that we'll spend another huge sum of money on a striker approaching his 30s. 

After splashing £55m on a now 29-year-old Yoane Wissa last summer, becoming fully aware of how his lack of sell-on potential, I'd expect us to be searching for 'the next Suarez' instead.