Premier League-bound Newcastle United are in talks with champions Chelsea over a potential move for striker Tammy Abraham this summer, according to The Sun.
The 19-year-old enjoyed a stunning season on loan at Championship outfit Bristol City this time round, netting 26 goals in 48 games in all competitions, including 23 in the league as Lee Johnson’s side narrowly avoided the drop.
Arguably, it was Abraham’s goals that secured the Robins their place in the second tier next term, and as a result of a fine campaign at Ashton Gate, the striker’s future has been subject to much speculation, with several top-flight sides reportedly interested in landing him for next season.
And although Everton and Leicester are reportedly monitoring Abraham’s situation, as indeed are Chris Hughton’s Brighton, it is Rafa Benitez’s Newcastle who appear to have seized the initiative as the Magpies are reportedly willing to cover Abraham’s wages during his loan stint at St James’ Park.
Benitez led the North East giants to promotion from the Championship at the first time of asking, winning 29 of their 46 matches to finish nine points clear of third place Reading, with their final victory also enough to pip Hughton’s Brighton to the title.
Yet attentions are already turning to their top-flight campaign next season, and given their reliance on striker Dwight Gayle this time round (he scored more league goals (23) than the other three forwards put together (18)), Benitez clearly feels that he needs more firepower up front.
And although he is unproven at Premier League level, the Newcastle chief evidently believes that Abraham can give him that next season.