Liverpool are interested in signing Newcastle United midfielder Georginio Wijnaldum.
According to a report in the Daily Mirror, Newcastle United had planned to swap Georginio Wijnaldum for Liverpool’s Jordon Ibe, when Jurgen Klopp’s side first registered their interest in the midfielder.
Newcastle wanted a cash sum and Ibe, in exchange for Wijnaldum – but their plans have been scuppered.
Bournemouth have made a cash bid for Ibe, which has been accepted, and the winger is now expected to move to the south coast.
It leaves Newcastle wanting £30 million for Wijnaldum, as interest rises in the Dutch international.
Wijnaldum looks likely to leave St. James’ Park this summer, but the North East club are under no pressure to sell.
Newcastle do not need to raise funds rapidly, even after their relegation to the Championship, with the Tynesiders currently in a secure financial position.
As a result, they plan to maximise the amount of money they raise for Wijnaldum – who Benitez would ideally want to keep.
Newcastle have made four signings so far this summer, with Matz Sels, Matt Ritchie, Dwight Gayle and Jesus Gamez all joining.
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