Newcastle United are unlikely to spend big on Lyon attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta as he is not seen as a 'priority' at St James' Park, according to journalist Jacque Talbot.

The Magpies have already been busy in the transfer market, with them making Matt Targett's loan move from Aston Villa permanent thanks to forking out up to £15million, but head coach Eddie Howe has reportedly had his eyes on Paqueta as well.

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What's the latest news involving Paqueta?

Newcastle only did business with Lyon a matter of months ago, with Bruno Guimaraes completing a £40million switch to St James' Park during the final stages of the January window.

But The Times have reported that the Tynesiders could return to the French club as they are willing to part with even more cash in order to secure Paqueta's services, with £50million being a potential fee.

Reaching an agreement at that figure would result in Paqueta becoming the most expensive acquisition in Newcastle's entire history.

Head of recruitment Steve Nickson is also known to have watched the 24-year-old in action on a number of occasions, heightening links to St James' Park.

However, Telegraph journalist Luke Edwards has raised doubts over a summer transfer being completed by suggesting Newcastle are not looking to sign Paqueta despite being admirers.

What has Jacque Talbot said about Paqueta?

Talbot is not expecting Paqueta to head to Newcastle as Howe has other positions he is more keen on strengthening.

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When asked whether Paqueta is likely to join the Magpies, Talbot told GIVEMESPORT: "No. He came to Newcastle to visit on holiday and I think it has literally stemmed from that. He's friends with Bruno Guimaraes.

"I've been told from loads of sides - from the club side and the player side - there is nothing in Paqueta. He's not going to go to Newcastle.

"Newcastle had him on a list, I think, in January. They like him, he is a talented player and he's not happy at Lyon because of Juninho. In fact, Juninho has left and he is a little bit unsettled there, but Newcastle are not going to pay £50million for a player who is not in a priority position."

What would Paqueta bring to Newcastle?

Paqueta enjoyed a fruitful 2021/22 campaign, with him chipping in with 11 goals and seven assists in 44 appearances.

While the 33-cap Brazil international would clearly bring an attacking threat to Newcastle, he is also capable of excelling on the less glamorous side of the game.

That is because, according to FBref, Paqueta ranked in the 99th percentile among attacking midfielders and wingers for tackles and successful pressures last season, so he would contribute out of possession as well as when the Magpies are in the final third of the pitch.