A source revealed: "Now Mike has overall control of Newcastle he wants to make a statement of intent to the rest of world football.
"He wants to land a global superstar to show he means business and make everyone sit up and take notice.
"Mike hopes to move over the next few weeks as Raul and Deco face uncertain futures."
The future of Real Madrid skipper Raul has been in doubt since the sacking of boss Fabio Capello.
Portugal ace Deco wants to play in England and could be offloaded if Barca land Frank Lampard.
