Report: Bruce has convinced 26-year-old to join Newcastle over Premier League rivals

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Face-to-face talks with Steve Bruce convinced former Bournemouth winger Ryan Fraser to choose Newcastle United over a host of Premier League rivals, according to Sky Sports.

With just a matter of days remaining until the new season kicks off, the Magpies are closing in on a trio of signings that could transform them from relegation candidates to contenders for a top-half finish.

Callum Wilson looks every inch the reliable goal-scorer Bruce is crying out for, while Jamal Lewis joins Jeff Hendrick in bringing proven Premier League experience to St James’ Park.

When it comes to Fraser, however, the jury is most certainly out.

A year ago, the likes of Liverpool, Tottenham and Arsenal were allegedly sniffing around the Scottish pocket-rocket after he produced seven goals and 14 assists – a tally only bettered by Eden Hazard.

But a disastrous 2019/20 campaign, which ended in relegation, means Fraser was no longer coveted by some of the biggest and best, although Everton, Crystal Palace, Fulham and West Ham were still rumoured to be interested.

According to Sky, however, Fraser held talks with Bruce on Friday and has now decided that his future lies on Tyneside.

A medical is expected to take place early this week.

While the much-maligned Magpies boss has his fair share of critics, he deserves plenty of praise as Newcastle move into pole position for one of the most high-profile free agents on the market.

If Fraser can recapture that 2018/19 form, he could be the best pound-for-pound signing of the summer.