Newcastle United have reportedly made an ambitious move to sign Tottenham Hotspur winger Lucas Moura, with the Brazilian having slipped down the pecking order in north London.

What's the word?

According to Football Insider, the Magpies have 'enquired' regarding a possible loan deal for the 30-year-old as they look to make him their fifth major signing of the transfer window so far.

The report suggests that Spurs' potential interest in Leeds United winger Daniel James could well pave the way for the 35-cap gem's arrival, with Moura having made just two late substitute appearances for Antonio Conte's side so far this season.

Excellent signing

That limited involvement - totalling a measly 12 minutes - is a reflection of the former Paris Saint-Germain forward's standing at his current side at present, with the Brazilian no doubt deserving better having so often delivered for the Lilywhites.

Despite never truly managing to nail down a regular starting berth for the club for one reason or another, the 5 foot 8 "genius" - as described by one source - still boasts an impressive record at Tottenham to date, having scored 38 goals and provided 27 assists in 204 games in all competitions.

The £18m-rated speedster - who arrived in England on a £23m deal back in January 2018 - notably etched his name into Spurs folklore after netting a stunning second-half hat-trick against Ajax in the Champions League three years ago, firing Mauricio Pochettino's team into the final as a result.

It is hard to shake off the feeling that the £80k-per-week menace has been harshly treated by his current club, having subsequently been dropped for the final defeat to Liverpool following Harry Kane's return from injury.

In need of a new home and a fresh start, the explosive talent - who is also attracting interest from Aston Villa - could well be a player to light up St James' Park, with manager Eddie Howe no doubt in need of further attacking additions.

While the arrival of Alexander Isak has no doubt significantly bolstered the Magpies' attacking ranks, the recent injury absence of Allan Saint-Maximin in the defeat to Liverpool showcased just how light the Tynesiders are on the flanks - hence the need for Moura to arrive.

Tipped to be an "excellent signing" after originally arriving in the Premier League four years ago - as per journalist James Olley - the feeling is that it could well be a real marquee capture if Newcastle were able to get a deal over the line before tonight's deadline.