"I spoke to someone today" - Keith Downie drops fresh Newcastle transfer claim

Newcastle United are trying hard not to overspend in a "difficult" transfer window, says Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Tyneside club are desperately trying to sign Sevilla's Diego Carlos, but they are yet to meet the Spanish outfit's asking price.

Not bad, the Magpies have managed to strengthen up front and in the full-back positions with the additions of Chris Wood and Kieran Trippier.

Wood joined from Burnley after a £25m release clause in his contract was met, while Trippier arrived following the £12m agreement Newcastle struck with Atletico Madrid.

Eddie Howe will no doubt be pleased with a defender of Trippier's experience coming in, but the 44-year-old is still looking to add to his backline.

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle have made a £30m bid for Carlos, but Sevilla are holding out for £37.9m.

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Downie has told GIVEMESPORT that Newcastle are trying to avoid paying over the odds this month, which is proving difficult.

Speaking to GMS, the Sky Sports journalist said: "I spoke to someone today who's well aware of what's going on in these deals, and what he said was that Newcastle are trying to bring players in, but they're trying not to overspend, trying not to be ripped off. But it's so difficult to do that in January."

Following their recent takeover that has made them the richest club in football, the above is no surprise.

A defender like Carlos, however, looks like he could be worth every penny and would probably be quite a coup for Newcastle. 

At Sevilla, the Brazilian is currently competing against Real Madrid for the La Liga title, while Newcastle find themselves at the opposite end in their respective league table.