Newcastle United 'show interest' in Chelsea star as West Ham 'beat' Magpies to the signing of ex-Arsenal youngster

Chelsea midfielder Billy Gilmour is reportedly attracting interest from Newcastle United. (Photo by FACUNDO ARRIZABALAGA/POOL/AFP via Getty Images)

Newcastle United head coach Steve Bruce is hoping to bolster his squad ahead of the new Premier League season, with a central defender top of his list.

Here is the latest Magpies gossip doing the rounds on social media:

Newcastle interested in Chelsea star Billy Gilmour

Newcastle are interested in Chelsea’s Billy Gilmour, with reports suggesting the midfielder could be loaned out next season.

The Scottish sensation broke into the Blues’ first team under Frank Lampard but his game time has been restricted since Thomas Tuchel arrived in January.

That could open the door to a temporary move away from Stamford Bridge – and the 20-year-old certainly won’t be short of admirers.

As per the Daily Mail, Norwich City are eagar to bring Gilmour to Carrow Road, while Southampton and the Magpies are also among his admirers.

Toon missed out on ex-Arsenal youngster

Newcastle have missed out on the signing of young Celtic midfielder Armstrong Okoflex to West Ham United, All Nigeria Soccer claims.

The Magpies reportedly attempted to sign the 19-year-old this summer but is said to have opted to join the Hammers after his contract in Glasgow expired.

He has put pen to paper on a two-year contract, including an option to extend that by one year. Celtic are entitled to a compensation package.

It is described as a “transfer coup” for the Hammers after beating Newcastle and Crystal Palace to the former Arsenal youngster’s signature.

Liverpool want £15m for Nat Phillips

Liverpool will demand £15million for Nathanial Phillips amid links to Newcastle and Burnley.

It was claimed by The Sun last week that Steve Bruce was lining up a ‘formal’ move for the defender, who stepped in for the injured Virgil Van Dijk, Joe Gomez and Joel Matip last season.

Despite impressing during his 20 appearances, the return of the trio is expected to push Phillips down the pecking order.

Jurgen Klopp won’t stand in the 24-year-old’s way should he decide to leave for the good of his career, however The Athletic reports that interested parties will need to pay £15m.