Newcastle United's hunt for a new winger will ramp up this summer as Paul Mitchell looks to create a squad capable of tackling on multiple fronts.
The Magpies' Carabao Cup win over Liverpool at Wembley has ensured they will be playing in Europe next season. Lifting the trophy guaranteed Eddie Howe's side Conference League qualification - though Newcastle continue to strive for a place in the Champions League next season.
Regardless of which of the UEFA competitions they are playing in, they will need a bolstered squad to cope with the additional games. Newcastle are set to be busy in the transfer market this summer, with some of their PSR restrictions lifted and a budget that could be in excess of £100million at Mitchell's disposal.
The sporting director and Steve Nickson, Newcastle's head of recruitment, are responsible for a list of targets that have been drawn up, along with head coach Howe. It is expected that United will look to strengthen in four positions - goalkeeper, centre-back, right wing and a central striker - as part of their summer rebuild which could also see players leave.
The right wing position has attracted the most speculation, and that has increased since Miguel Almiron's departure in the winter window. Newcastle have been linked with a host of options as they look to provide an alternative and competition for the in-form Jacob Murphy.
Bryan Mbeumo, Johan Bakayoko, Antoine Semenyo and Tyler Dibling have all been mentioned, while Marseille winger Luis Henrique has also been mentioned in recent weeks.
Mitchell has extensive contacts and knowledge of Ligue 1 from his time at Lille, and Henrique has become one of the most sought-after players in France. The 22-year-old has nine goals and eight assists this season, and has attracted attention from a number of clubs.
Reports have claimed that preliminary talks have already taken place between Bayern Munich and Henrique’s representatives, with the German giants keen to steal a march on their rivals. Bayern are looking for someone to replace Kingsley Coman, and the Brazilian star is on their shortlist. Head coach Vincent Kompany and sporting director Christoph Freund watched Henrique in action during Marseille's clash with Paris St Germain.
Inter Milan has believed they were at the front of the queue and have tabled a five-year contract for Henrique, alongside a €25m (£21.6m) transfer fee. However, Marseille are said to be holding out for a valuation closer to €30m-€35m (£26m-£30m).
A number of Premier League clubs are believed to be keeping tabs on Henrique, who can operate on either flank. Wolves, Crystal Palace and Nottingham Forest have all expressed concrete interest in the Brazilian but it is believed Newcastle have shown the greater interest.
Mitchell & Co continue to weigh up their transfer shortlist with Mbeumo and Bakayoko believed to be firmer targets, while they are also keen on Wolves star Matheus Cunha. The versatile forward - another Brazilian - has a £62.5m release clause which can be activated this summer and United have been contacted by his representatives.
