An update has emerged on Newcastle United and their pursuit of Lucas Paqueta in the summer transfer window...

What's the talk?

Northern Echo reporter Scott Wilson has revealed that the Magpies are investigating the possibility that the Brazilian will be available for a fee in the region of £34m.

He Tweeted: "TRANSFER LATEST: NUFC looking into suggestions that Lyon have slashed their asking price for Lucas Paqueta to around €40m. Seems extremely unlikely, but Newcastle would almost certainly make a move at that price..."

Big Joe Willock upgrade

If the £34m valuation turns out to be accurate and the Magpies are able to bring him in, Eddie Howe would be getting a big upgrade on current Toon midfielder Joe Willock.

The former Arsenal man joined on a permanent basis last summer and endured a difficult campaign. He averaged an unimpressive SofaScore rating of 6.71 across 27 games in the Premier League - chipping in with just two goals and failing to register a single assist.

These statistics indicate that Willock did not put in good displays week-in-week-out and struggled to contribute in attack to make up for his inconsistent showings.

Paqueta, meanwhile, averaged a SofaScore rating of 7.13 in Ligue 1 as he proved that he is capable of producing brilliant performances on a regular basis in a major European league. He showed that he is not a player who only turns up once every five, six, or seven matches and that he can be relied upon over the course of a season.

Along with that, he showcased his ability in the final third. The gem scored nine goals and assisted six from central midfield as he broke forward from a number eight, sometimes number 10, role to make a big impact at the top end of the pitch.

Talent scout Jacek Kulig dubbed him a "pure joy to watch" earlier this year and his aforementioned statistics suggest that his comment is apt, as the Brazilian is a consistent performer who has the quality to make things happen. 

Paqueta would, therefore, be a big upgrade on Willock both in terms of the overall standard of his performances and the potential threat he can provide in the final third. Their respective statistics suggest that the Lyon man would offer far more to Howe's team than the Englishman and that is why he would be a fantastic addition to the squad.

AND in other news, Newcastle "have enquired" about signing £60m "nightmare", he'd be a big Wood upgrade...