‘The deal is still alive’: Journalist claims Newcastle could yet bring £38m powerhouse to St James’ Park

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Newcastle United haven’t had a great few days on the transfer front.

While the Magpies have signed Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood this month, they’re yet to land a third signing.

And it’s not like Newcastle haven’t tried – but they’ve been unlucky so far.

However, one deal over a top target is “still alive”, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

Newcastle have been linked with Atalanta’s Duvan Zapata in recent weeks.

Earlier this week, 90Min claimed that talks between the Magpies and Zapata’s club were still going on.

Atalanta apparently rejected Newcastle’s opening offer to sign the Colombian on loan.

However, they reportedly expect the Magpies to return with a second bid.

Jones, writing on GiveMeSport, gave his take on the Zapata to Newcastle discussions.

“Newcastle fans might yet have a new goal threat on the way if they can get a Zapata deal over the line,” Jones wrote on Wednesday.

“The deal is still alive, but Atalanta are trying to squeeze every pound they can out of a potential deal, so it’s dragging out.”

Jones’ comments somewhat echo what 90Min wrote yesterday.

The Magpies are apparently willing to pay Atalanta an £8million loan fee with an obligation to buy Zapata for another £30million – including bonuses – if they stay up.

Atalanta reportedly turned down the offer because they want the obligation to kick in regardless of Newcastle’s Premier League status.

Understandably, the Magpies wouldn’t sanction such a deal.

But given the whole football industry knows that Newcastle aren’t exactly short of money, it’s sadly not surprising that clubs are allegedly trying their luck.