Newcastle United locked in talks over £40m-rated star after personal terms agreed claim

The Magpies are reluctantly set to part ways with the 19-year-old this week — just 12 months after signing him from Danish side Odense Boldklub for £7million. He spent last season on loan at Feyenoord and his 11 goals in 37 appearances has attracted interest from a host of clubs.

The initial plan had been for Eddie Howe to take a closer look at Minteh in pre-season before making a decision on his future. However, pressures to comply with Premier League Profitability and Sustainability Rules (PSR) and maximise their transfer budget means Newcastle are willing to sell for a quick profit.

At one stage, a switch to Everton seemed the most likely option but such move is in a major doubt after Howe’s side ended their pursuit of Dominic Calvert-Lewin. The Toffees want close to the £40m mark, a fee Newcastle believe to be too high.

Indeed, a trade-off involving Minteh and Calvert-Lewin would have helped both clubs combat PSR. While the latter is set to stay put — as it stands — the former remains on the move. Minteh’s agent revealed on Saturday that the player had agreed personal terms with an unnamed club.

And after joining the race over the weekend, it’s understood Lyon are now working on a deal to sign Minteh and are pushing to agree personal terms while talks continue over a fee. It’s been suggested Newcastle want £40m for the Gambian but may have to accept a lower offer.

It is likely the Magpies will use part of the funds to recruit a right forward this summer, while Howe is also targeting a goalkeeper, central defender and striker.