NUFC plot audacious bid to sign £81m-rated "genius", he "makes football a pleasure" - opinion

Newcastle have already shown signs of their ambition in the transfer market since switching to Saudi PIF ownership towards the end of last year.

The signings of Bruno Guimaraes from Lyon and Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid are proving to be quality additions to Eddie Howe’s team, while Chris Wood, Matt Targett and Dan Burn have all also made an impact since arriving in January.

However, they haven’t yet added that one world-class marquee signing that will really capture the attention of not just the rest of the league, but the world – and PSG forward Neymar has emerged as someone who can be that man.

According to reports in Spain, via the Daily Mail, Newcastle are interested in bringing the Brazilian superstar to St James’ Park this Summer – and they of course have the finances to fund such a deal.

After being booed by his own fans against Bordeaux last week, the report also states that he is now unsettled in France, and the Ligue 1 giants are willing to sell.

Rivalling them for his signature could be his former club Barcelona and Premier League champions Manchester City, who are on the lookout for a world-class forward to add to their team for next season.

Despite not having set the world alight this season, scoring just five goals in 14 Ligue 1 games, the winger is still worth £81m according to Transfermarkt.

Once hailed as a “genius” by Brazil teammate Rodrygo, the most expensive player ever is still someone who can terrorise defences, evident by the fact that he ranks in the top 2% in Europe’s top five leagues and continental competitions among wingers and attacking midfielders for shot-creating actions per 90 (5.85).

Also ranking in the top 2% for dribbles completed per 90 (3.83), top 1% for carries into the