Newcastle focus on Praet after Jovetic snub but they need a striker

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Inter Milan’s Stevan Jovetic snubs Newcastle as they turn focus to Sampdoria midfielder Dennis Praet – but a new striker should still be a priority.

Stevan Jovetic of FC Interernazionale celebrates his goal during the International Champions Cup match against Chelsea.

Newcastle United are believed to have ended their pursuit of Inter Milan’s Stevan Jovetic after the forward rejected the chance to move to St James’ Park, according to talkSPORT.

So with a deal to sign the former Manchester City man now off, the Magpies are instead focusing on Sampdoria midfielder Dennis Praet – whom they are confident of signing for a £12m fee.

Dennis Praet in action during the Serie A match between UC Sampdoria and Benevento Calcio.

While the expected arrival of Praet will bolster manager Rafa Benitez’s options in the middle, not securing Jovetic does not mean they should call off their recruitment in attack.

Since returning to the Premier League this season, Newcastle have lost both of their opening matches without scoring a goal. There were concerns over whether the current strikers at the club could cut it in the top flight before the campaign started and early signs suggest those fears were well founded.

Andy Carroll of West Ham United.

The Chronicle have linked the North East side with a return for Andy Carroll, although that now looks unlikely with West Ham United adamant the 28-year-old will only leave permanently and not on a loan deal.

Benitez has made no secrets about how much he wants to improve the entire squad with new signings, but with finances limited the Spaniard may need to be more selective and currently, signing a new forward is much more pressing than a new midfielder.