Newcastle and Sunderland battle for Brazilian midfielder

North-east rivals Newcastle United and Sunderland could be about to go head-to-head for Shakhtar Donetsk midfielder Marlon Gomes.

Gomes penned a four-year deal as he joined the Ukrainian giants in January 2024 from Brazilian side Vasco da Gama.

The 22-year-old midfielder has become a key player for Shakhtar in the last two-and-a-half seasons.

He netted four goals in 13 appearances in his first half season, before becoming a mainstay in the team across the last two campaigns.

According to SportsBoom, Gomes' performances have alerted the attention of Newcastle and Sunderland, who are both monitroing the player's situation.

It has been reported that Shakhtar will not open negotiations for less than €20 million.

Newcastle are looking for reinforcements in plenty of areas following an underwhelming campaign last season.

Their desire to boost their midfield options may also be increased by the fact that Sandro Tonali has been heavily linked with a big-money move to Tottenham Hotspur.

Meanwhile, Sunderland are looking to strengthen their squad ahead of their upcoming Europa League campaign.

Gomes is at his best when operating from a deep-lying playmaker role and he has the ability to control matches whilst dictating play.

He possesses excellent technical ability but he also has the physical attributes which could see him thrive on Tyneside or Wearside next season.

Matt Gibbs

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