Newcastle United are preparing an offer to take Sporting Lisbon centre-back Ruben Semedo to St James’ Park this summer, and have been boosted by the player being open to heading to England.
The 23-year-old was in fine form for Sporting Lisbon in the recently concluded season, making 31 appearances in all competitions.
Semedo’s impressive displays have attracted the interest of French outfit Lille and newly promoted Premier League club Newcastle, according to Portuguese sports daily O Jogo.
But, in a big boost to Newcastle's hopes of signing Semedo, it has been claimed that the defender is reluctant to move to France as he is keen to play in England.
It is claimed Newcastle are in the process of putting together a €15m bid for Semedo.
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However, the Magpies may have to nudge up their bid as Sporting Lisbon president Bruno de Carvalho values Semedo at closer to the €20m mark.
Newcastle manager Rafael Benitez has followed Semedo's performances throughout the campaign and is keen to make him a summer recruit.
Semedo, whose present contract with Sporting Lisbon runs until 2022, has represented Portugal up to Under-21 level.
