Barella, who helped the Azzurri win the Euro 2020, is a top target for the Magpies, who will play in the Champions League next season.

According to Sky Sports, Newcastle are "in talks" with Inter Milan over a £50m move for the 26-year-old.

Barella has proven pedigree at the top level, playing in the recent Champions League final against Manchester City. Eddie Howe is understood to be a big fan of the player, who would become the Magpies record signing if they can get the deal over the line.

Newcastle's transfer record is the £60m they paid for Alexander Isak last summer.

Barella, who has been capped 43 times, has scored 20 goals in 187 games for Inter since signing from Cagliari in 2019.

And Barella could be joined in a new-look midfield by Leicester midfielder James Maddison.

Newcastle are believed to be leading Tottenham in the race to sign the England midfielder.

Both clubs are interested in signing the 26-year-old attacking midfielder, who has only a year left on his contract, this summer.