Carlos’ pricetag rockets ... but Magpies still interested

NEWCASTLE United’s pursuit of Diego Carlos is not over yet – despite Sevilla’s asking price getting close to astronomical levels.

Ahead of what is predicted to be a frantic final week of business in the January window for Newcastle, it looks like they will have to smash their transfer record to land the classy South American defender.

Carlos has been the subject of multiple bids and quotes between Newcastle and Sevilla with the player still open to the move.

The Magpies went in at € 36million but that package – which included add-ons and incentives – was rejected by the La Liga side last week.

Carlos then emerged after Sevilla’s 1-1 draw at Valencia to say to TV reporters: “I have a lot of time left here.”

The Chronicle understands his stance was based on the fact that Sevilla and his boss Julen Lopetegui were sticking to their guns on asking for more, leaving him to feel he may not get the move he clearly wants.

However, while the window is open Carlos is not giving up.

Carlos’ minimum fee release clause is set at around £80million. Sources in Spain suggest the tipping point may be closer to around £60million.

Whether Newcastle can get acceptance on an offer with those adds-ons and incentives for the centre-back, though, remains to be seen.

The situation has Carlos sweating a little bit – with the personal terms put to his representatives Bertolucci Sports accepted, the Brazilian knows the biggest pay day of his life could slip by if his club holds out for a bigger fee.

Despite Sevilla’s La Liga title chase this season, as they trail leaders Real Madrid by four points, Carlos, at 28, harbours ambitions to star on the Premier League stage.

However, Carlos is leaving the situation in the hands of his agent and, rather than pushing aggressively for the move, he is pulling on his boots for now.

He played in Sevilla’s 2-2 draw at home to Celta Vigo in La Liga over the weekend.

Nevertheless, it has been reported in Spain that Sevilla director of football Monchi is considering back-up options for his club.

Feyenoord’s Marcos Senesi could be a possible replacement for the Seville outfit if they lose their star defender.