Newcastle close in on £7m deal to sign French striker as talks accelerate

BAFETIMBI GOMIS is on the verge of joining Newcastle from Swansea, according to reports.

 

Swansea striker Bafetimbi Gomis is reportedly close to signing for Newcastle

 

The Magpies tried to sign Gomis before he joined Swansea from Lyon, but were put off by the player's wage demands. 

However, according to the Daily Telegraph, Steve McClaren's side are becoming increasingly desperate to sign a striker before the transfer window closes and are keen on renewing their interest in Gomis. 

 

Newcastle originally had their sights set on Chelsea striker Loic Remy but he is reportedly keen on staying in London, so they have turned to Gomis in a bid bolster their attacking ranks. 

What is even more encouraging for the Magpies is that Gomis is said to be unsettled in Wales, so securing a move for the frontman before the transfer window closes looks increasingly likely. 

And French website Get French Football News claim Swansea and Newcastle are close to agreeing a £7million fee after negotiations over a deal took a step in right direction. 

The report adds that the stumbling block earlier in the week was centred around the contract length, with Gomis' representatives wanting a three-and-a-half year deal, but Newcastle only offered a two-and-a-half year contract. 

However, both clubs are said to have now agreed upon the contract length and the Magpies are now in a position to sign the player. 

Newcastle have previously avoided signing anyone over the age of 28 as they do not have a resale value but McClaren is said to be prepared to make an exception to this rule. 

Should the 30-year-old sign, it will take Newcastle's spending since McClaren become coach in June to around £90m.