Newcastle United have a definite ‘interest’ in Lyon attacking midfielder Lucas Paqueta, according to journalist Dean Jones.

Manager Eddie Howe has openly admitted that he is still in the market for reinforcements in the final third of the pitch after missing out on both Hugo Ekitike and James Maddison.

What is the latest news involving Newcastle?

Howe recently stated that he is still ‘looking at a couple of attacking players’ after signing goalkeeper Nick Pope and defenders Sven Botman and Matt Targett to improve his backline.

“We are still looking for one stroke two players who can make a difference for us,” said the 44-year-old in a recent interview with Sky Sports.

“We’ll never stop until the window’s shut to try and add to the group. It’s no secret that we’ve been looking at a couple of attacking players that can make a difference for us.”

And Paqueta could be one of the players targeted by Newcastle, with 90min claiming that Lyon are now ready to do business at around £33 million with add-ons.

Previously reports have listed the Brazil international’s price tag as over double that figure, meaning the Magpies could secure themselves a bargain if they manage to get this deal over the line.

What has Jones said about Paqueta?

Jones has informed GiveMeSport that it ‘wouldn’t surprise’ him if an ‘offer went in’ for Paqueta from Newcastle before the window slams shut on September 1.

He said: “When you check out a story like this, you usually expect that it will just be knocked down, but it hasn't been at all actually.

“It's one that has been kept alive by every single check call, so there's definitely interest here, and it wouldn't surprise me at all if an offer went in.”

How could Newcastle line up with Paqueta?

Howe has almost exclusively lined up in a 4-3-3 formation since arriving at Newcastle, with Paqueta’s compatriots Bruno Guimaraes and Joelinton regular starters.

Jonjo Shelvey enjoyed an impressive revival at the end of last season but is currently sidelined through injury, allowing Joe Willock to come back into the starting XI at the beginning of the current campaign.

Nevertheless, Willock, who plays as the most advanced of the three in midfield, would likely be the player who suffers if Paqueta does make the switch.

The South American has racked up 33 goal contributions in 77 appearances for Lyon, and if he could replicate that form for Newcastle then he would surely be a fans’ favourite.