Newcastle United are moving for Boca Juniors midfielder Alan Varela.

Boca are prepared to sell Varela this month, having fielded an approach from Barcelona last month. The Catalans saw Varela as a potential replacement for captain Sergi Busquets.

D Sports Radio reports that Newcastle are entering the tug of war for the midfielder's signature.

The Toon have offered £15m for the 21 year-old.

It is unclear whether Boca Juniors will accept the bid as the player has a buyout clause of £18m.

Varela is under contract at Boca until 2026.