Newcastle United are interested in signing AS Roma midfielder Jordan Veretout, according to a report from Italian outlet Area Napoli

The lowdown: Career so far

A senior France international, Veretout has spent time in the Premier League previously with Aston Villa, where he made 29 outings before being sold to Fiorentina in 2017.

The 29-year-old cultured midfielder has also had spells at Nantes and Saint Etienne in Ligue 1 before finding a home at Roma and amassing 128 appearances to date, scoring 22 times and providing 16 assists.

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Now, it appears following a fresh claim from Italy that a return to England could be on the horizon...

The latest: Magpies ready to pounce

As per Area Napoli, Newcastle are 'courting' the five-cap ace ahead of the summer transfer window.

The St James' Park hierarchy have an approach ready and could 'soon present an official offer' to sign the Frenchman who is definitely 'leaving Rome'.

Serie A side Napoli are also cited as potential suitors for the man praised for an 'absolutely superb' display by journalist Josh Bunting back in August, during which Veretout scored once and provided an assist in a 4-0 victory over Salernitana.

The verdict: Shrewd move

Albeit perhaps not the calibre of the star-studded name many might be expecting Newcastle to target in the upcoming window, Veretout's vast top-flight experience across Europe would help to take Eddie Howe's side to the next level.

This season, the versatile star has directly contributed to 14 goals in 48 appearances under Jose Mourinho, earning an impressive 7.13 average match rating in the process whilst making 1.5 key passes, winning 2.6 duels and taking 46.3 touches on average per league game (Sofascore).

Valued at £19.80million and under contract until 2024 (Transfermarkt), Veretout presents an affordable and astute option as Newcastle boss Howe attempts to freshen up the midfield department.

In other news, find out which ‘world-class’ ace NUFC have now made contact over signing here!