When Newcastle United fans spotted Lucas Paqueta having a kickabout with Bruno Guimaraes in a Tyneside back garden earlier this year, it looked inevitable the Brazilian friends would be team-mates this season. However, with just seven days remaining of a gruelling summer transfer window, Newcastle are unlikely to add Paqueta to their ranks, Chronicle Live understands.
The Magpies have not launched any bids for the Lyon playmaker thus far, despite keeping an eye on his situation over the summer. The imminent arrival of Alexander Isak in a deal worth £58m also makes a late bid unlikely with Lyon wanting close to £50m for Paqueta's services.
The former AC Milan star has been offered to a host of clubs in recent months as Lyon made no secret of their desire to cash in on his eye-catching performances. As of yet, only West Ham United have submitted an official offer to the Ligue 1 side.
