Report: Newcastle bid for Lille’s Brazilian star Thiago Maia

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Lille narrowly avoided relegation from Ligue 1 and now they face another challenge, keeping Thiago Maia from Newcastle United.

Thiago Maia was one of the few bright sparks in a dismal season for Lille that very nearly resulted in their relegation from Ligue 1. So no wonder Les Dogues are hoping to keep hold of the highly-rated Brazilian this summer.

But, according to Le 10 Sport, this could be easier said than done after Newcastle United made an offer to sign Maia.

The report states that the Magpies have been keen on the midfielder for some time but their offer has been rejected by Lille, who are understood to be refusing to sell the 21-year-old for the fee Newcastle are currently offering.

Maia, who featured in 34 Ligue 1 games last season, is a defensive midfielder by trade renowned for his wide range of attributes, from winning back possession with well-timed challenges to distributing and carrying the ball effectively.

He can also play at left-back, an area where Newcastle are weak with Paul Dummett lacking any real competition.

ESPN reported that Liverpool, Chelsea, PSG and Juventus were all tracking Maia after he helped Brazil win gold at the Rio Olympics in 2016. He also starred as his Sao Paolo side won the State Championship a few months earlier.

Newcastle have signed a number of players from French football over the years, with the likes of Moussa Sissoko, Mathieu Debuchy and Yohan Cabaye starring after crossing the Channel.