Britain Football Soccer - Manchester City v Arsenal - Premier League - Etihad Stadium - 18/12/16 Arsenal's Mesut Ozil in action with Manchester City's Pablo Zabaleta and Fernando Action Images via Reuters / Carl Recine Livepic EDITORIAL USE ONLY. No use with unauthorized audio, video, data, fixture lists, club/league logos or "live" services. Online in-match use limited to 45 images, no video emulation. No use in betting, games or single club/league/player publications. Please contact your account representative for further details.

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Thu 22 June 2017 7:17, UK

By Derek Smithson

Newcastle are set to sign Manchester City midfielder Fernando, according to a report.

The Sun claim that the Magpies are in “pole position” to land the 29-year-old ahead of Premier League rivals Southampton and Bournemouth.

It is understood that the north-east club have held talks with the Brazilian and that he is ready to move, but a deal must now be negotiated between the two clubs.

The report details that Man City want £8million for his services, but manager Rafael Benitez believes he can secure a £5million deal for the defensive midfielder.

Fernando fell down the pecking order at the Etihad Stadium last season and has just one year remaining on his contract.

The central midfielder still made 27 appearances across all competitions and is most recognised for his defensive work in front of the back four.

He has now played 102 times for Man City since his arrival in 2014 for £12million from Porto.

Benitez is looking to bring in top-class additions at St James’ Park ahead of Newcastle’s Premier League return next season and Fernando does have 53 Champions League games under his belt to prove his quality.

Football Insider verdict:

Newcastle need to bring in some recognised Premier League players for next year and Fernando would be a great buy. The 29-year-old could turn out to be a bargain price at £5million and bring some real toughness to the Man City midfield. Benitez’s side are going to need some grit in their side to avoid a relegation battle next season and tough tackling Fernando would bring that in abundance. The Brazilian is also strong in possession and could form a great partnership alongside playmaker Jonjo Shelvey in the centre of midfield. Fernando could do with a move away from Man City after falling out of favour under Pep Guardiola and still has a point to prove in English football.

In other Newcastle transfer news, they are set to complete a goalkeeper transfer.

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