Transfer news: Newcastle reopen talks with Lyon over striker Bafetimbi Gomis in late bid to bolster squad

The two clubs were unable to agree a fee earlier this summer

Bafetimbi Gomis (GETTY IMAGES)

Newcastle have reopened talks with Lyon striker Bafetimbi Gomis as they attempt to bolster their squad ahead of the transfer deadline, Press Association Sport understands.

The two parties have resumed discussions which stalled earlier this summer after the clubs had agreed a fee.

The Magpies have to date made only one summer signing with Loic Remy having arrived on a season-long loan deal from QPR, although he is yet to play for the club which initially tried to sign him in January because of a calf injury.

The news comes a day after Lyon president Jean-Michel Aulas was quoted as saying the France international had his heart set on a move to Germany.

Newcastle are long-term admirers of the 28-year-old frontman, who has also attracted interest from Marseille, although they have as yet been unable to make a breakthrough in a protracted saga.

Manager Alan Pardew has been desperate to boost his striking resources ever since Demba Ba's departure for Chelsea in January and with Senegal international Papiss Cisse currently becalmed in front of goal, his need is growing by the day.

Remy was a threat for relegated QPR during the second half of last season and Pardew is hopeful he will be involved from the bench in Saturday's Barclays Premier League clash with Fulham.

However, the addition of another goalscorer would significantly strengthen his hand.

Director of football Joe Kinnear vowed to land a striker within days of his appointment and belatedly tied up the Remy deal, but whether or not the club can persuade Gomis that his long-term future is on Tyneside remains to be seen.

The Magpies head for Morecambe in the Capital One Cup second round still not knowing if France midfielder Yohan Cabaye will be on the books when the transfer window closes on Monday.

The 27-year-old will not be involved once again at the Globe Arena after Arsenal tabled a formal bid for him, although the Gunners are yet to return with a second offer after their initial approach was rejected out of hand.

Pardew was diplomatic when asked about the situation, although he knows it will be resolved within days.

He said: "Some of the issues around this situation, I think, best remain private, if I am honest, for now.

"At some point in the future, I think the fans can understand why I want to do that. I hope they do. At the moment, I am keeping some of the issues private."

PA