Newcastle United boss Eddie Howe is insistent on wanting to welcome the right characters to St James' Park and Chelsea star Conor Gallagher 'would fit in really well', according to Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie.

Matt Targett, Nick Pope and Sven Botman have set the Magpies back close to £60million since the transfer window reopened for business, but Howe could make further additions ahead of the September 1 deadline.

GiveMeSport Transfer Verdict

What's the latest news involving Gallagher?

According to The Sun, Newcastle have made Gallagher a primary target and are set to step up their efforts to persuade Chelsea into sanctioning his departure.

The report suggests the Blues value the central midfielder at £40million and, as a result, the Magpies would have to break their record transfer fee.

Gallagher is not the only Chelsea star to have made his way onto Howe's radar as Callum Hudson-Odoi, Christian Pulisic and Armando Broja are reportedly of interest as well.

But it is understood that a move for Gallagher is progressing ahead of the fast-approaching transfer deadline, making him a more likely arrival than any of his three team-mates.

Lines of communication are expected to remain open between the clubs ahead of September 1 as a switch could be facilitated if Chelsea strengthen their midfield.

What has Keith Downie said about Gallagher?

Downie understands that Howe is not interested in acquiring fresh faces unless he is certain that they are the right fit for his squad.

The Sky Sports reporter believes Gallagher has been identified as a target because the Chelsea man would be a positive influence in the St James' Park dressing room.

Downie told GIVEMESPORT: "For Eddie Howe, the characters involved are really important.

"That's why I feel that Conor Gallagher would be the one that would fit in really well."

Are Newcastle facing competition for Gallagher's signature?

Gallagher is a man in demand after scoring eight goals and registering a further five assists in 39 appearances last season.

The 22-year-old's stunning form came while on loan with Crystal Palace and allowed him to win four England caps.

The Eagles have enquired about the possibility of being able to seal Gallagher's return to Selhurst Park, while West Ham United are also known to be interested.

That means that Howe, who was appointed as Newcastle's head coach last November, has a fight on his hands as he looks to win the race for the central midfielder's signature.