Newcastle are tonight pressing ahead with a move to sign Aston Villa midfielder Jacob Ramsey and there is hope of progress before the weekend.
Daily Mail Sport understands that talks are set to intensify on Wednesday and a formal offer is about to be submitted.
The clubs were negotiating on a price of around £40m on Tuesday night.
Ramsey is said to be keen on a move to St James’ Park, with Eddie Howe a long-time admirer.
There is competition for his signature, including West Ham, but there is confidence on Tyneside of landing their top midfield target.