Newcastle: £40m star 'someone Howe would want' at St James' Park

Newcastle United could make a late move for Conor Gallagher as head coach Eddie Howe ‘would want’ to lure the Chelsea star to St James’ Park, according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

The Magpies completed the £63million club-record signing of striker Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad on Friday, but further reinforcements may head to Tyneside ahead of the 11pm deadline on September 1.

According to The Sun, Gallagher has been identified as Newcastle’s number one target ahead of the final stages of the transfer window.

The report suggests the Magpies have stepped up their pursuit of the midfielder after failing with two bids for Leicester City star James Maddison, but Chelsea are seeking £40million.

However, Newcastle are not the only Premier League side who are chasing Gallagher with the deadline looming as it is understood that West Ham United are hopeful of negotiating a season-long loan.

It comes after the 22-year-old spent last term on Crystal Palace’s books as it was clear that he did not have a clear pathway into Chelsea head coach Thomas Tuchel’s side.

But the temporary spell could play into the Eagles’ hands as they will reportedly be at the front of the queue to sign Gallagher if a move away from Stamford Bridge is in the offing.

Downie understands that Howe will only attract further fresh faces to Newcastle if he feels they are the right fit.

The Sky Sports reporter feels Gallagher ticks all the boxes and, as a result, is certain that the Magpies chief is keen on striking a deal.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: “He’s been at pains to say it again and again, but they will only bring in the right player.

“Now, I think Conor Gallagher is the right player for what they’re looking for. I don’t know what the