Newcastle United have reportedly now 'enquired' over the possibility of signing Lyon attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta.

The Lowdown: Paqueta wants to leave Lyon

It has been reported that the 24-year-old wants to leave Lyon in the current transfer window, putting the St James' Park club on high alert.

They are thought to be interested in signing the Brazil international and could make their move before the new Premier League season starts in just over three weeks' time.

The Latest: Newcastle enquiry

Taking to Twitter, CBS Sports Golazo journalist Ben Jacobs has revealed that Lyon will now 'seriously consider' offers in the region of £55m for Paqueta and will not stand in his way if their valuation is met.

He added that Newcastle, along with both Arsenal and AS Roma, have 'enquired' over the possibility of signing the 24-year-old, but they are also thought to be exploring other creative options.

The Verdict: Get it done

The prospect of Paqueta linking up with his former Lyon team-mate and fellow Brazilian Bruno Guimaraes is a truly mouth-watering one for the Toon Army, and adding another Samba star alongside Joelinton in the middle of the park should really catch the eye.

Backed by pundit Frank McAvennie to be an ‘incredible signing’ when first linked with Newcastle, Paqueta would offer another dimension in midfield, as he scored an impressive 11 goals and supplied a further seven assists for Lyon across all competitions last season (Transfermarkt).

European football expert Alex Barker raved about the 24-year-old's 'phenomenal' performances in Ligue 1, and he looks well able to make the step up to the English top flight.

Of course, at £55m, it would be a risk for Newcastle to break their club-record transfer fee on him, but Paqueta is a player who could seemingly take Eddie Howe's side to the next level - nobody at St James' Park managed more than eight goals last term, while only Callum Wilson struck more than five.