NEWCASTLE have reportedly joined the battle for wonderkid Giovani – but would have to shell out £50 million to land him.
Palmeiras have that release clause in his contract as they look to fend off European sides looking to claim their talented teen.
The attacker made his first team debut in 2021 and his natural ability has seen big clubs linked to him.
Ajax and Bayer Leverkusen are among those who could be interested but Newcastle would be able to financially outmuscle those sides after their Saudi takeover.
ESPN Brazil report that the battle for Giovani’s signature has hotted up since he recovered from an ankle injury that had been keeping him out.
They say that Ajax were the first European side to monitor him and have already had a £10m bid rejected.
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They add that Giovani is seen within Palmeiras as “one of the biggest jewels”, which explains why they moved to stick a £50m release clause in his contract.
The Brazilian side have recently had to let another talent, Gabriel Veron, move to Porto in a £9.5m deal so have even more incentive to hold onto their asset.
Newcastle have already been busy in the transfer window as they prepare for their first full season under new ownership.
So far in the window Eddie Howe has prioritised defensive reinforcements.
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Lille defender Sven Botman moved to St James’ Park last month in a £39m deal as the club beefed up their defensive line.
He followed Matt Targett who converted his loan move from Aston Villa into a permanent one for £15m.
And England keeper Nick Pope has also arrived at the club after leaving Championship Burnley in a £10m switch.
The Magpies will kick off their season at home against newly-promoted Nottingham Forest next week.
