Newcastle United have approached Roma to discuss a summer transfer for long-time target Carles Perez as Steve Bruce eyes deals beyond Arsenal’s Joe Willock, per Calciomercato.
The Toon are closing in on Willock’s permanent return to St James’ Park after spending the latter half of last season on loan. Chronicle Live report Newcastle have agreed to a £25m package with Arsenal, which The Athletic note features an upfront £20m.
Bruce hopes Willock’s arrival will bolster the Newcastle engine room in time for Sunday’s Premier League season-opener against West Ham. But the Magpies boss also has eyes on adding to his wide forward options with a move to sign Perez.
Newcastle have approached Roma to sound out the likelihood of Perez leaving the Stadio Olimpico this summer. The 23-year-old only moved to Italy from Barcelona last summer for €12m (£10m), but already faces an uncertain future.
Jose Mourinho is unlikely to award Perez a prominent role in his first Giallorossi squad after taking charge this summer. The Portuguese believes he has stronger options in the ranks at the Serie A side and is ready to sanction a transfer for the £55,000-per-week attacker.
Newcastle have asked Roma if they would allow Perez to leave for a low fee with Bruce limited on funds. The Toon have admired the former Spain U23 international for a number of years. They also tried to poach the winger last summer after an initial loan from Barcelona.
Roma are not prepared to simply give Perez up given the investment made, but have not ruled out an exit. Instead, they would be willing to sanction a loan with an option or obligation to buy as they need cash.
Newcastle to consider loan-to-buy for Roma winger Perez?
Calciomercato do not claim how much Roma would demand Newcastle pay in 2022 to loan Perez for the season. The former Espanyol prospect endured a difficult campaign last term, netting twice and assisting twice in 21 Serie A games under Paulo Fonseca, starting just six.
Roma would likely request the fee they paid Barcelona last year, but Newcastle may drive a lower price. Perez’s inability to establish a starting role under Fonseca will only strengthen the Toon’s position in any further negotiations.
A loan deal should also work for Newcastle if Bruce opts to pursue a deal with Roma for Perez. The Athletic recently noted the Magpies only have the funds for one permanent deal, which is likely Willock. After that, they can only afford two temporary transfers.
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