Newcastle ‘very close’ to winning race for in demand forward

Newcastle United are “very close” to signing Ryan Fraser on a free transfer after his release by Bournemouth, according to reports.

Fraser left Bournemouth after his contract expired in the summer. He did not sign a short-term extension to finish the season, so has not played since March.

The winger was a reported target for the likes of Arsenal and Tottenham earlier in the summer. Then, reports suggested Leeds United had also joined the race.

However, it appears the 26-year-old will be moving to the North East instead.

According to the Shields Gazzette, Fraser is on the verge of joining Newcastle. The Scotland international would be able to move closer to home as a result.

The report claims Fraser is keen to sign for Newcastle, and they could complete the deal before their next pre-season friendly, against Stoke on Saturday.

Steve Bruce wants attacking reinforcements at St James’ Park, after no player reached double figures in terms of goals last season. To further complicate their problems, Dwight Gayle faces a spell on the sidelines with injury.

Newcastle chase two more

The Shields Gazzette adds that Newcastle are also plotting a swoop for someone who is still at Bournemouth – Callum Wilson.

Wilson is one of the players most likely to leave Bournemouth after their relegation from the Premier League. The striker will want to keep his England chances alive after making four caps since 2018.

And Newcastle could offer Matt Ritchie back to Bournemouth in a swap deal.

Ritchie joined Newcastle from Bournemouth in 2016. He signed a contract extension earlier this year, but could now return to the South Coast.

Finally, the Shields Gazzette confirms Rob Holding is another target for Newcastle. The Arsenal defender is looking for more gametime after falling down the pecking order at the Emirates Stadium.

A loan move to Newcastle for the season could help him get his career back on track.