Sky: Newcastle close to second signing in 24 hours

Founder & Managing Director AUTHORITY Former chief correspondent at Evening Standard, Goal and Press Association with nearly three decades in national, regional and digital news and sports journalism. Wayne directs the network’s news strategy and high-level operations. FOCUS Editorial direction for the 11-site network and newsroom management. THE BRIEF Wayne oversees the network’s editorial standards across the network. He provides the final sign-off on all headline scoops, ensuring content across all platforms meets the standards required for a high-velocity newsroom.

Published on:

27 Aug 2016, 3:49 pm

By Harry Sykes

Newcastle are close to adding Palermo left-back Achraf Lazaar to the Saturday signing of striker Daryl Murphy, according to a report.

Ipswich manager Mick McCarthy revealed on Saturday evening that Murphy handed in a transfer request earlier in the day and will complete a switch to the Championship big hitters.

The boss also confirms that Daryl Murphy will be joining @NUFC after handing in a transfer request today #itfc pic.twitter.com/GuQyKsjH8a
— Ipswich Town (@IpswichTown) August 27, 2016

MM: "It's disappointing to lose Daryl but I can understand his reasons for wanting to go to Newcastle and we wish him well" #itfc
— Ipswich Town (@IpswichTown) August 27, 2016

Sky Sport claimed on their website that Lazaar underwent a Newcastle medical on Saturday afternoon.

The two clubs have agreed a transfer fee for the 24-year-old Morocco international to move to St James' Park on a permanent deal.

Lazaar will now put pen to paper on a contract with the Magpies if he agrees personal terms and passes the medical.

The left-back has also been linked with West Ham United this summer but Newcastle are set to finalise a deal to bring him to St James’ Park over the weekend.

The 24-year-old was in the stand to watch the Championship match between Newcastle and Brighton on Saturday, which was won 2-0 by his new club.

The 14-time capped international was integral to Palermo’s Serie A campaign last season, making 30 domestic appearances for Davide Ballardini’s side.

The left-back position has proven to be a problem for the north east club with Paul Dummett, Ciaran Clark and Jesus Gamez all occupying the role in the early stages of the new campaign.

Benitez has already outspent his Championship rivals in this summer with some big signings, notably Dwight Gayle and Matt Ritchie, who joined for a combined £24million.

In other Newcastle transfer news, their central midfielder is in talks over a move.

Newcastle United

Achraf lazaar