Newcastle United are still locked in talks to sign Benfica midfielder Andreas Samaris, a player the Portuguese giants are prepared to sell. 

Samaris has a release clause of €45m in his contract at the Estadio da Luz, but Benfica believe now is the right time to sell the 28-year-old to maximise their return.




Newcastle have offered €15m, according to Portuguese sports daily O Jogo, but Benfica want €20m in order to part ways with the Greek international midfielder.

It has been claimed in some quarters that the deal is off, but the Magpies are still continuing talks with Benfica to reach an agreement.
 


Benfica president Luis Felipe Vieira is clear that he will not allow Samaris to leave until the €20m price tag is met and the ball appears to be in Newcastle's court.

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Magpies boss Rafael Benitez is a firm fan of Samaris and wants him added to the ranks at St. James' Park.

The midfielder joined Benfica in 2014 from Greek heavyweights Olympiacos and has been capped on 28 occasions by his national team.