Newcastle United are continuing their transfer work despite uncertainty about the club's ownership this summer.
The Magpies are in the midst of a takeover from a consortium backed by the Saudi royal family.
However, despite the deal not being confirmed, The Chroniclesays their transfer teams are still working on deals.
Head of recruitment Steve Nickson is back at work. And one of his duties is to hold talks with the representatives of Nice midfielder Arnaud Lusamba.
The 23-year-old is a key target for the Magpies, and he would be available given the poor financial condition of most Ligue 1 teams at present.
Leicester, Bordeaux, Strasbourg, Lyon and Werder Bremen also want the player.