As reported by The Evening Chronicle, Newcastle United are eager to sign Chelsea winger up on a permanent basis this summer, after impressing on loan in the second half of last season.

What's the story?

The Magpies are on the hunt for talent that can help them improve on their 10th placed finish in the English Premier League next term, having consolidated on their return to the top-flight from the Championship.

One player that Rafa Benitez is eager to add is former loanee Kenedy.

That's according to The Chronicle, who say that Benitez is even in talks with the player's agent about a potential move to St James' Park, with the Spaniard looking to structure a deal that will suit both the Blues and the 22-year-old himself.

The paper reckon he could cost as much as £20m, which would make him Newcastle's record incoming signing.

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Would he be a good signing?

While Kenedy is still far from the finished product, he did show enough on loan last season that suggests he could be a shining light in Rafa Benitez's team next term. He scored twice and assisted twice in the second half of 2017/18, helping the Magpies turn around their form and escape relegation in the latter stages.

Still young and clearly fancied by Benitez, St James Park can be a great learning ground for him next term and he will undoubtedly improve with more regular first-team football.

£20m may be expensive by Newcastle's standards, but in today's transfer market that could prove to be something of a bargain, especially if the Brazilian can up his direct goal contribution.

He's a player who should definitely be a priority for the club this summer.

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