Is he bound for Newcastle United? Not according to his agent, no.
Speaking to Desporto ao Minuto, the agent of Sporting Lisbon stalwart Ruben Semedo has rubbished reports linking his client with a move to Newcastle United.
Portuguese outlet O Jogo reported on Thursday that Newcastle had agreed a £12 million deal with Sporting for the 23-year-old, who can play in central defence and defensive midfield.
However, Catio Balde was unequivocal in his claim that there is very little substance to the story.
“Totally false. It’s a lie. This is not true at all”, he told Desporto ao Minuto when asked if the Portuguese ace was headed for St James’s Park.
“It has no real background. It’s all a lie. Ruben is with the national team and it is all a lie. There is nothing.”
Newcastle are headed back to the Premier League next season after winning the Championship under Rafael Benitez last term.
The Magpies shipped 40 goals in 46 Championship outings, but the top flight is a big step up in class and defensive personnel will be needed in order to help the North-East giants enjoy a successful return to the big time.
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