Newcastle, Villarreal battle for Ruben Semedo

Spanish daily newspaper AS has suggested that Newcastle United and Villarreal are locked in the battle for Sporting CP centre-back Ruben Semedo.

The talented footballer has been heavily linked with a summer exit, and the Yellow Submarine believe he would be a good long-term replacement for Mateo Musacchio, who recently agreed a move to AC Milan.

However, while reported €14 million asking price could prove to be an issue for the La Liga side, they also face stiff competition from English Premier League.

Namely, newly promoted Newcastle United recently emerged as favourites for the player’s signature and there are no doubts the Magpies are in a position to offer the 23-year-old much better financial terms than Villarreal.

Also capable of operating as a holding midfielder, Ruben Semedo nailed down a regular starting berth at Sporting CP last term after returning from a loan spell at Vitoria Setubal and he has so far made 38 league appearances for the Lions.