Newcastle United's search for a top class defender has seen them linked with Roma centre-back Roger Ibanez as they look to improve their squad ahead of the new Premier League season.
Reports from Italian outlet Calciomercato state both Newcastle and Tottenham are interested in the Brazilian defender who Roma boss Jose Mourinho rates highly.
A fee of around £30m has been mooted as a potential first offer to test Roma's resolve for Ibanez who impressed last season.
The Brazilian made 51 appearances in all competitions last season including 15 in Europe for Roma.
READ MORE: Potential powerhouse Newcastle United face summer transfer window 'problem'
A classy operator capable of playing in a back four or back three, the 23-year-old was instrumental in helping Roma win the inaugural Europa Conference League too, which saw Mourinho's side claim a 1-0 win over Feyenoord.
Both Newcastle and Spurs are said to be keen on improving their defensive options for next season. However, Ibanez has a release fee clause of £80m, which could see both sides priced out of a move for the centre-back.
A move to Tyneside would see Newcastle's Brazilian duo become a trio with Ibanez linking up with compatriots Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton.
Newcastle are also still pursuing Lille defender Sven Botman too. It is likely that Newcastle would only sign one of Botman and Ibanez due to the big outlays both would cost.
