Newcastle want to smash transfer record for Brazilian striker Joelinton in the hope of persuading Rafa Benitez to stay

Benitez is out of contract in the summer but will get further backing in the transfer window if he decides to stay at St James’ Park.

Miguel Almiron’s arrival in January for £20.7million smashed the club’s record transfer fee that stood for 14 years.

Michael Owen had held that mantle ever since joining for £16.8m from Real Madrid way back in 2005.

But they are preparing a £40million move for Hoffenheim’s Joelinton after his impressive form in Germany.

The 22-year-old is on course for double-figures in Bundesliga this season and his club are braced for summer offers.

Newcastle showed interest later in the January window but Hoffenheim wanted to keep the Samba star as they had no time to find a replacement.

His value has also increased after three goals in his last six games since the end of January.

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But Hoffenheim still stand to make a massive profit on the player they signed from Sport Recife four years ago before sending him on loan to Rapid Vienna.

Meanwhile, Newcastle suffered a huge blow today when midfielder Sean Longstaff was ruled out for the rest of the season through injury.

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