Newcastle plotting William Carvalho bid

Newcastle United have emerged as surprise contenders to pursue the signature of Sporting midfielder William Carvalho this summer.

The Portugal international has been long linked with a switch to the Premier League with West Bromwich Albion, Everton and Arsenal among his admirers.

According to The Star, Magpies boss Rafa Benitez is keen to bolster his midfield ranks ahead of next season in order to avoid another drop from the top flight.

Carvalho has previously stated his ambition of lifting the Primeira Liga title with Sporting before moving on to a fresh challenge, but it now appears that he is willing to switch clubs.

The Magpies are likely to face stiff competition from both Manchester City and Arsenal, who are hoping to potentially challenge for the Premier League crown after an average season by their standards.

Carvalho, who is contracted to Sporting until 2020, recently put up a transfer request to leave the Lisbon-based club following yet another frustrating league season.