Newcastle United are now prioritising the transfer of Burnley winger Maxwel Cornet at St James’ Park this summer, believing he could make an instant impact, according to transfer insider Dean Jones.

Eddie Howe is preparing his side for the 2022-23 campaign but more transfers could still be completed ahead of the September 1 deadline.

What is the latest on Cornet?

The Ivory Coast international only made the move to Turf Moor from Lyon last summer, signing for £13.5 million but he could be on the move again.

That is because of a relegation release clause included in Cornet’s contract, meaning he is now available for just £17.5 million, something that has caught the eye of Newcastle.

According to MailOnline, the North East giants have approached Burnley but aim to avoid paying the clause in one payment as a way of navigation Financial Fair Play restrictions. Burnley would be looking for closer to £25 million if such a payment method were to be used.

Cornet was left out of Burnley’s squad for their opening game in the Championship this season, a 1-0 win over Huddersfield Town, suggesting that they may be resigned to his departure.

What has Jones said about a potential deal?

Jones understands that a move for Cornet has become a sudden priority for Newcastle this summer, as Howe looks to strengthen his attacking options.

The transfer insider also believes that, given his release clause, the 25-year-old would represent excellent value for money too.

Jones told GIVEMESPORT: “He’s definitely one Newcastle are prioritising because he's available and they think he would make an instant impact in that team, and he’d be ready to go from day one. He's also really good value compared to other players in his position with that sort of quality. So he’s shot up Newcastle's wanted list recently.”

Would Cornet be a good signing for Newcastle?

Last season saw Cornet score nine goals in 26 Premier League games for Burnley. Not the most spectacular numbers, but in a relegated side they are not to be sniffed at.

Prior to joining the Clarets he had scored 51 goals in 252 games for Lyon, with one strike for Metz taking his career first-team tally to 61 goals.

Newcastle are continuing to monitor Leicester City duo Harvey Barnes and James Maddison but they are likely to cost the Magpies around £50 million each at least.

Cornet, who earned £44,000 per week in the Premier League, therefore represents a much more frugal option at this stage in the window. For £17.5 million, it could be a shrewd move.