The Kingdom of Saudi Arabia's (KSA) Public Investment Fund (PIF) are reportedly eyeing up a Newcastle United move for Real Betis midfielder Nabil Fekir.

The Lowdown: Midfielder wanted

The Daily Mail’s North East reporter Craig Hope revealed last week that the Tynesiders are set to prioritise the signing of a central midfielder, as they search for an ally for Bruno Guimaraes.

The likes of Leicester City duo James Maddison and Youri Tielemans have been linked, as they could look to strengthen in the January transfer window, or next summer.

The Latest: Fekir interest

As per Spanish sources, the St. James' Park outfit are preparing an offer for €45m (£39.4m) to try and sign Fekir in the summer.

However, they will face competition from fellow Premier League rivals West Ham United and Arsenal for his signature.

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The Verdict: Too expensive

There is no doubt that Fekir is a quality player, with his goal against HJK Helsinki in the UEFA Europa League on Thursday night his injuries, and at 29 years of age, £39.4m is a lot of money to spend on someone that could be on the decline.

A FIFA World Cup winner with France, Fekir has had a decorated career, playing over 300 times for two high-profile clubs in Europe, Lyon and Betis, contributing to over 160 goals (Transfermarkt).

He could help attract other big names to the Magpies in the summer, but they should consider trying to negotiate a much cheaper price if they are serious about signing him.