Newcastle target Robin Le Normand favours a move to Atletico Madrid, according to Mundo Deportivo.

The Catalan publication claims that the Magpies are one of the clubs who have made “proposals” to the Spanish international.

However, a transfer to Atletico is the one that “motivates” Le Normand the most “at the moment”.

It was reported in the Spanish media last week that Newcastle were lining up a €30m (£26m) bid for the defender but such an offer is unlikely to be accepted.

Mundo Deportivo claim that Real Sociedad are referring clubs to the player’s €60m (£51.5m) release clause but that is not a figure any interested party is willing to pay.

Le Normand is on the radar of other Premier League teams

Newcastle are not the only club in England who have been linked with the 27-year-old in recent weeks, with reports having mentioned Arsenal and Aston Villa as possible destinations.

Currently, it does appear as if Le Normand’s preference would be to stay in Spain but Newcastle may have one trick up their sleeve to convince him to make the switch to St James’ Park.

One of his former teammates is a Newcastle player

Someone who will know Le Normand pretty well is Alexander Isak. The Swedish international played alongside the centre-half for three seasons before he left for the Magpies at the start of last season. With the striker’s future at the club far from certain, though, that may not help Newcastle get their man.

Whatever happens, Eddie Howe’s side will be in the market for a new centre-half. With captain Jamaal Lascelles out for the long term with an ACL injury, and Sven Botman having fitness problems of his own, it is a key area to strengthen this summer.

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