Newcastle United 'in talks' for Palermo left-back

Newcastle United are thought to be in talks with Palermo left-back Achraf Lazaar over a £2.6m deal.

Magpies manager Rafael Benitez is hoping to bring in three more faces before the transfer window shuts next Wednesday, with a defender, a winger and a striker all on his shopping list.

Lazaar, 24, has attracted interest from a host of Premier League clubs this summer - including Southampton, West Ham United and Crystal Palace - after impressing with his performances in the Serie A last term.

The Morocco international has 10 months left on his deal with Palermo and is keen on a move to England, with Newcastle his preferred destination, according to The Chronicle.

Newcastle are currently seventh in the nascent Championship table after two wins from their opening four fixtures.