Gabriel Barbosa could give Eddie Howe Newcastle selection headache as he eyes Brazil lifeline

Newcastle United could reopen talks with Flamengo striker Gabriel Barbosa as they look to bolster their attacking options this summer. Chronicle Live broke the news that 'Gabigol's' representatives are keen on a move to the Magpies with the Brazilian intent on playing European football once more.

The Magpies talks with Hugo Ekitike have reportedly broken down over agents demands and Eddie Howe's recruitment team are looking at possible alternatives. Barbosa has an incredible goals to game ratio since returning to his home country.

There'll understandably be reservations over his spells with Inter and Benfica in his youth, but if he's able to settle in on Tyneside, the Magpies could have one of the most prolific strikers in world football in their side. There's plenty of work to be done before that happens, with no official bid for Barbosa as things stand.

However, Newcastle do need to add to their forward line if they're serious about European football in the not too distant future. Callum Wilson, Chris Wood and Dwight Gayle are the three strikers currently at the club, whilst Allan Saint-Maximin has also played up front.

Wilson's career has been plagued with injuries, but his prowess in front of goal is second to none. Barbosa would provide serious competition for the England World Cup hopeful, and could in theory give Newcastle a different dynamic in attack.

Howe has tinkered with his formation during his time at St. James' Park, but has rarely played with two up front. Former Flamengo boss Paulo Sousa had the desire to play Barbosa alongside fellow forward Pedro.

He said: "I will remind you of some of the words I said before I arrived in Rio about my idea of dynamics so that I can use Pedro and Gabi together. Give me