Newcastle United are reportedly lining up a £30m bid for Aston Villa midfielder John McGinn when the transfer window reopens.
McGinn was a key player in Villa's fight against relegation before suffering an ankle injury which has kept him sidelined since December, scoring three goals in 18 Premier League appearances.
However, Dean Smith's side remain in danger of an immediate return to the Championship, and the Daily Star reports that Newcastle are ready to pounce for McGinn if the Midlands outfit do go down.
Magpies manager Steve Bruce was the Villa boss when McGinn joined the club and is still a big fan of the Scotland international.
However, the report claims that Villa are confident of keeping hold of the 25-year-old should they avoid relegation; they currently sit two points from safety with a game in hand.
Newcastle's pursuit could also be affected by the proposed takeover of the club, which moved a step closer on Tuesday and could have an impact on Bruce's future at St James' Park.
Barney Corkhill
