A major update has emerged regarding Newcastle United's pursuit of Sevilla defender Diego Carlos...
What's the talk?
Sky Sports reporter Pete Graves has revealed that a bid has been placed by the Magpies, with Eddie Howe looking to improve his defensive options this month.
The journalist tweeted: "On #nufc centre back search... Diego Carlos firmly in clubs sights. Substantial offer made - remains on table - player (very) intrigued. Definitely one to watch."
Fans will be delighted
Newcastle fans will be delighted with this claim from Graves as it shows that the club are making serious moves for players. They are not going into the market and making offers which aren't worthwhile for other clubs to even consider purely to make it look like they are trying to do something, instead submitting sizeable bids which will test the resolve of clubs being targeted.
PIF are offering substantial amounts of money for players in order to bolster Eddie Howe's squad, and the supporters will love that as it could give Newcastle the best possible chance of avoiding relegation to the Championship. The current group of players have proven themselves to not be good enough for where the Magpies want to be.
They are 19th in the Premier League table and have the second-worst defensive record, with bottom club Norwich - who have played a game more - the only team to concede more goals than Howe's side so far this season. This highlights the huge issues the Magpies have in the defensive third of the pitch and highlights why fans will be particularly delighted with this news, as Carlos could solve some of their problems in that regard.
The Brazilian enforcer has been in fine form for Sevilla in La Liga this season and has been able to perform consistently to a high level, with an average SofaScore rating of 7.14. Although it is impossible to guarantee that he will be able to do the same in the Premier League, it shows that there's a strong chance of him joining and discernibly improving Howe's team.
Newcastle fans will also be buzzing to read that the player is keen on the move. It shows that the 28-year-old is willing to come in and help the team scrap for survival, rather than being put off by their precarious position and potentially needing to be convinced to complete the transfer.
AND in other news, "Pushing behind the scenes": Keith Downie drops on-air NUFC update which will excite fans...