Super-rich Newcastle United have joined the race for Bologna sensation Aaron Hickey.
That's according to transfer guru Fabrizio Romano who claims Saudi-backed Toon chiefs are chasing the left-back for as much as £20million.
And Scotland cap Hickey, who made his first two senior appearances in dark blue in the two recent friendlies against Poland and Austria, is also wanted by AC Milan.
Rossoneri director Paolo Maldini's interest has grown stronger according to respected Italian sports publication La Gazzetta dello Sport.
It's no surprise given he's played the most minutes out of any teenager in Europe's top five leagues and finally gained international recognition.
But the emergence of Newcastle - now close to Premier League safety and able to plan long-term with their newfound wealth - could create a dream prospect for the club who sold him to Serie A Bologna if a bidding war develops.
Romano claims he could be available for between £15-20m and that other clubs are "monitoring closely".
And if Hearts can count on a sell-on clause in the terms of his sale, as has been widely reported, they could be in for an even bigger windfall.
Just 10 per cent of a £20m fee would earn a £2m slice – eclipsing the initial sale of £1.5m.
It would also make up for the 30 per cent that went to Celtic when he was bought by Bologna in August 2020.
