Keith Downie has dropped the latest on Newcastle United's reported pursuit of Will Hughes in the summer transfer window.

The Lowdown: Hughes talks

As per The Sun, Steve Bruce is reportedly in talks with Watford to sign the 26-year-old for a deal which would be worth in the region of £12m.

The Hornets are willing to let him go in order to bring in some new players, and they are interested in a move for Isaac Hayden, who could be used as part of a potential swap deal.

The Latest: Downie on Hughes

Taking to Twitter, Sky Sports journalist Downie has dropped the latest on Newcastle's reported pursuit of Hughes, claiming:

"There’s no Newcastle interest in Watford’s Will Hughes I’m told, and the club have no intention of allowing Isaac Hayden to leave either."

The Verdict: Blow

It would certainly be a blow for Newcastle if they are not able to sign Hughes, as he could turn out to be a very useful squad player for them.

The midfielder played a big part in Watford getting promoted back to the Premier League at the first time of asking, making 30 Championship appearances last term and scoring two goals (Transfermarkt).

The fact that he is English is a bonus in terms of the Tyneside club filling their homegrown quota, and at 26 years of age, he has probably not reached his peak yet.

It would certainly seem to be a smart buy from the Magpies if they were able to lure Hughes away from Vicarage Road.

In other news, find out what Kieran Maguire has said about the latest takeover development