Newcastle United are rivalling Southampton for Schalke midfielder Weston McKennie.
The USA international is rated at £20million, which would represent a substantial amount of Newcastle's summer budget, but the club is weighing up an offer as they assess their priorities.
Manager Steve Bruce is adding free agent Jeff Hendrick to his squad and knows his recruitment will have to be creative around loans and other bargains.
McKennie is 21, athletic and plays the holding role. Southampton have been considered favourites while there is also interest from Monaco.
Schalke need to sell this summer after hitting financial difficulties.
Newcastle are also interested in Arsenal's versatile Ainsley Maitland-Niles. The 22-year-old wants to play in his preferred right wing position and Arsenal will sell for around £20m.
Wolves have also expressed an interest as they consider options should Adama Traore leave. However, Newcastle would prefer a loan with obligation to buy if possible.
