Newcastle United have reportedly now 'come forward' to try and sign Adrien Rabiot.

The Lowdown: Ekitike snub

After it was reported that the St. James' Park outfit have now pulled out of a deal to sign Reims striker Hugo Ekitike, they will be desperate to get other targets through the door and fast.

Nick Pope is expected to join after having a medical in the North East, while Matt Targett has already signed on a permanent deal from Aston Villa.

Nonetheless, more arrivals will be expected as the Tynesiders look to push on with their long-term project.

The Latest: Rabiot approach

As per Gazzetta dello Sport (via Sport Witness), the Magpies have now 'come forward' to try and sign Rabiot.

Juventus value the central midfielder at €20m (£17.2m), but he could leave for even less due to his contract situation.

Rabiot has 'declined' the approach however as he wants to play in the UEFA Champions League, leaving Eddie Howe's side to play the waiting game.

The Verdict: Shame

It will be a shame if the Toon miss out on signing Rabiot this summer, especially given his price tag.

The France international is multiple trophies with PSG as well as Juve.

Former teammate and footballing legend Gianluigi Buffon once said that the six-foot-two star is built 'like a wardrobe' in terms of physical strength in comparison to Paul Pogba, adding that he is an 'incredible' player Corriere dello Sport (via BeSoccer).

Nonetheless, to get Rabiot for potentially less than £17.2m in today's market would be a bargain, but it looks as if NUFC may be dependent on the player not receiving offers from a UCL club.