Transfer latest: Newcastle may switch search away from Berahino

The West Bromwich Albion striker is the Magpies’ primary striking target.

But negotiations over a deal for 22-year-old Berahino, also wanted by Tottenham Hotspur, Chelsea and Stoke City, are proving difficult.

And the Tynesiders are running out of time to sign a striker in this month’s transfer window.

Newcastle could turn to Swansea City’s Bafetimbi Gomis, who is available for £7million.

In recent years, the Magpies’ recruitment policy has focused on players in their teens and early to mid-20s who would have a resale value.

Gomis, however, is 30, though United could make an exception to the rule given the financial imperative of top-flight survival ahead of next season’s new multi-billion pound TV deal.

Chelsea forward Loic Remy – who spent the 2013-14 season on loan at St James’s Park – is another potential target, though Chelsea have given mixed messages about his availability, despite the player finding himself on the fringes at Stamford Bridge.

The France international needs to be playing week in, week out ahead of Euro 2016.

United have also been involved in discussions with Tottenham over a move for winger Andros Townsend.

The 24-year-old needs to play between now and the end of the season if he is to make Roy Hodgson’s England squad for Euro 2016.

And Townsend, like Berahino, is understood to be interested in a move to St James’s Park.

But the two clubs are still some way apart in their respective valuations of Townsend, who is rated in the £14million bracket by Tottenham.

Mauricio Pochettino, Spurs’ head coach, was yesterday asked if Townsend had played his last game for the club. “I think it’s obvious, the situation of Andros,” said Pochettino.

“It’s always about rumours, but it’s true that it’s obvious when some players are not too much involved in the games. The player always wants to play and try to find the solution.”

Spurs, up to now, have been unwilling to loan Townsend. And as with Berahino, Newcastle could switch targets if there isn’t a breakthrough over the next few days.