Both stars have been linked with Newcastle over the weekend.
Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle United continue to be linked with a whole host of players, despite the Spaniard’s ongoing frustration at being unable to act in the window – but the two latest names would form an excellent midfield partnership.
Owner Mike Ashley has failed to provide Benitez with the funds required to strengthen his side, with The Toon only spending £4million to sign Martin Dubravka permanently. He has re-loaned Kenedy, and landed Ki Sung-yueng on a free.
However, the Daily Mirror claim Newcastle are interested in Milan Badelj on a free transfer after his contract at Fiorentina ran out, but face strong competition in the 29-year-old with AC Milan linked.
A ball-playing midfielder, Badelj was part of the Croatia World Cup squad but has decided to end his four-year spell with LA Viola in a bid to move clubs this summer and Newcastle could make that happen.
Newcastle are also not alone in their pursuit of the 26-year-old Brazilian, with Lazio, Wolfsburg and West Ham United also eyeing the pacey midfielder that is renowned for his box-to-box style of play.
It may be a case of one or the other for Benitez, but landing both would give the Spanish manager the perfect central midfield pairing.
Badelj is renowned for his passing and ability to break-up play in the holding-midfield role, while Mendes looks to get forward while his speed in the middle of the park sees him get back quickly.
The Brazilian star had a hand in eight goals last season and he would be given license by Badelj to get forward. Instead of signing one, Benitez should get both and combine them in midfield for just £18milion.
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