Newcastle plot transfer for Neymar’s sister’s boyfriend Gabigol after failing in chase for Benfica striker Darwin Nunez

NEWCASTLE are ready to turn their attention to Flamengo star Gabriel Barbosa after failing in their bid to land Darwin Nunez.

The mega-rich Magpies were hoping to bring in Benfica striker Nunez when the transfer window reopens next month.

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But the Portuguese side have rebuffed the Newcastle's advances and are refusing to sell.

Now the reports new boss Eddie Howe is looking to Brazil forward Barbosa, known as Gabigol, to add much-needed firepower to his relegation-threatened side.

The 25-year-old is a huge talent in South American football and lifted the 2019 Copa Libertadores.

Flamengo are thought to be open to a loan in January if it includes an obligation to buy next summer should Newcastle avoid the drop.

Howe’s side currently sit 19th in the Premier League - two points from safety.

Any permanent move is likely to cost the Saudi-owned Toon something in the region of £17million.

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Gabigol previously flopped at Inter Milan before moving to Flamengo on loan in 2019.

He is dating fellow Brazil international Neymar’s sister, Rafaella Santos.

The pair were first spotted together in London back in May 2017.

Neymar later sparked rumours of a rift when he posted a photo showing Gabigol’s face covered up after news of the relationship had broken.

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