Newcastle try to hijack Tottenham’s transfer for Roma star Nicolo Zaniolo but have ‘rejected £31m starting bid’

NEWCASTLE are reportedly trying to hijack Tottenham’s bid to sign Roma midfielder Nicolo Zaniolo.

The 23-year-old Italy international was heavily linked with Antonio Conte’s side in the January transfer window.

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Spurs are said to have been interested in a loan move with an option to buy.

Borussia Dortmund and West Ham have also reportedly been watching his situation.

However, according to the journalist Tancredi PalmeriNewcastle have now emerged as a potential destination for Zaniolo after he offered Roma £31m for the Serie A No.22.

The opening offer was rejected by the Italian side, but Eddie Howe’s men were able to return with a second offer.

Roma have slapped a £35million release clause on Zaniolo.

But Jose Mourinho’s side are already monitoring potential substitutes should Zaniolo leave this month.

The versatile midfielder has two goals and three assists in 17 appearances this season.

He joined Roma from Inter Milan in 2018 and since then has recorded 24 goals and 18 assists in 128 games for the club.

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Newcastle and Tottenham are both battling for a place in the top four in the Premier League this season.

The Magpies are currently third in the table, ahead of Man Utd on goal difference.

But Spurs are just three points behind them in fifth after their 1-0 win over Fulham on Monday.