special- Newcastle are confident of securing deals for Callum Wilson, Ryan Fraser and Rob Holding in the coming weeks.
The Magpies have had a relatively quiet transfer window, bringing in Jeff Hendrick and Mark Gillespie on free transfers. However, Steve Bruce is now ready to step up his recruitment drive with the new season fast approaching.
After some speculation, Steve Bruce is not ready to take charge of Newcastle this season/Poll/Getty Images
A source has told 90 Minutes that Newcastle currently have all three players and have been assured that a deal can be agreed for each of them.
The club have long been interested in poaching the racy Wilson from Bournemouth, although they have always faced stiff competition, with Aston Villa, Crystal Palace and West Ham all keen to sign the England international. are However, Newcastle believe they have the upper hand.
The Magpies are ready to offer former Cherries favorite Matt Ritchie in the deal. It is likely to be an attractive proposition for new Bournemouth manager Jason Tindall as the winger has won promotion to the Premier League twice. However, as Ritchie signed a lucrative new contract in March, Newcastle will be forced to subsidize some of the Scotland international’s wages.
Ryan Fraser has yet to secure a contract for the upcoming season / Robbie J Barratt – AMA/Getty Images
The Magpies are also targeting a move for Ryan Fraser. The 26-year-old is a free agent after refusing to sign a contract extension with Bournemouth. Leeds, West Brom, Fulham and Palace have held talks with Fraser, but with no offers in place Newcastle believe they are now front-runners to secure his signature.
The club are keen to sign Arsenal defender Rob Holding on loan until the end of the season. Holding has endured a tough time with injuries and will be looking to prove to Gareth Southgate that he is good enough for the England squad by impressing in a full Premier League campaign.
Leeds are also in the running but Newcastle believe they are leading the race for the 24-year-old.