GEORDIES SHOUT: VIVA ZAPATA!
BY
NEWCASTLE have been told they can snap up Atalanta striker Duvan Zapata for a cut-price £15million.
The Colombia star, 31, was a Toon target in January when they were quoted £35m for a loan-to-buy deal.
West Ham then thought they had a loan agreement with Atalanta – only for the move to stall in the closing minutes of the transfer window.
Newcastle are likely to have the chance of a close-up look at Zapata when the Serie A side visit St James’ Park for a pre-season friendly two weeks on Friday.
The Magpies’ Saudi Arabian ownership has sparked Middle East interest in striker Dwight Gayle.
Clubs in Saudi and Qatar are aware of Gayle’s availability after boss Eddie Howe said he has no future at Toon.
Gayle, 32, is training with academy players – only a year after signing a new three-year deal under Howe’s predecessor, Steve Bruce.