Newcastle United Rafael Benitez has reportedly maintained his interest in securing the signing of Manchester City midfielder Fernando.
In 2014, City paid £12m to sign the Brazilian from Porto, but he has only made 64 appearances in the Premier League, with just five starts being made during the most recent campaign.
That has led to the 29-year-old being made available for transfer and according to The Sun, Newcastle are ready to build on their interest in the player by wrapping up a £5m deal.
It has been claimed that City want more for a player who still acted as a consistent member of the squad during Pep Guardiola's first year in charge at the Etihad Stadium, but the Magpies are hopeful of agreeing a compromise.
Benitez is looking for experienced additions after the North-East giants secured a return to the Premier League at the first time of asking.
The Spaniard has only completed one signing so far, with Christian Atsu's loan spell from Chelsea progressing into a permanent stay at St James' Park.
Darren Plant
