Newcastle 'definitely' keen to sign £40m star after Isak at St James' Park

Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe has Chelsea star Conor Gallagher ‘on his radar’ as he looks to bolster his St James’ Park squad ahead of the summer window slamming shut, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

The Magpies broke their transfer record when they completed the £63million acquisition of Alexander Isak from Real Sociedad on Friday, but Howe could welcome more fresh faces to Tyneside ahead of Thursday’s 11pm deadline.

According to The Sun, Newcastle have identified Gallagher as their number one target ahead of the transfer window slamming shut.

The report suggests the Magpies have stepped up their efforts to persuade Chelsea to sell the four-cap England international, but the west Londoners are seeking £40million.

Newcastle are not the only side keen on securing Gallagher’s services as it is understood that West Ham United are plotting a late loan bid.

A move to Goodison Park could also be on the cards as Everton have asked Chelsea to include the central midfielder as part of the deal to take Anthony Gordon to Stamford Bridge.

To the frustration of Newcastle, West Ham and Everton, Crystal Palace will reportedly be at the front of the queue to sign Gallagher if Chelsea are willing to sanction his exit ahead of the deadline.

Jones understands that Newcastle are keen to bolster their midfield options and Gallagher is among Howe’s targets.

However, the journalist has warned that it will not be easy to strike a deal as the number of clubs coveting the Chelsea man has reached double figures.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “A midfielder is definitely one on the radar – Conor Gallagher.

“They’re just one of about 10 clubs that are looking at Conor Gallagher at the moment, so we can’t get too excited about it.”

Gallagher