Newcastle United are now preparing an opening bid for Real Betis star Abde Ezzalzouli, having been in regular contact regarding a transfer.

Ezzalzouli's primary position is left-wing, which is a position Newcastle have already improved this summer, with Bazoumana Toure arriving from TSG Hoffenheim earlier this month.

However, the Betis forward could still be an exciting addition to Eddie Howe's squad, given the level of his performances in La Liga last season, picking up ten goals and nine assists in 29 appearances.

Described as "extraordinary" by former Barcelona manager Xavi, the Moroccan also chipped in with seven goal involvements in 12 Europa League matches, before Betis were knocked out by Liga Portugal side Braga at the quarter-final stage.

Toure chipped in with 12 assists in the Bundesliga last term, which suggests he may be a better playmaker than the La Liga star, but the Magpies' recent signing averaged less than half the number of goals per 90.

The Morocco international's ability in front of goal suggests he may be an instant upgrade on the ex-Hoffenheim star in some ways, and Howe's side could be set to make an opening bid.

Newcastle preparing offer for Abde Ezzalzouli

According to a report from TEAMtalk, Newcastle are now preparing an offer to sign Ezzalzouli, having been in regular talks regarding a deal.

The Spanish side could sanction a departure for around €50m (£43m) this summer, which would make the left-winger a slightly more expensive addition than Toure, who cost £42m.

The PIF are determined to sign a new left-winger, having lost Anthony Gordon to FC Barcelona earlier this summer, but the 24-year-old is also capable of playing on the opposite flank, meaning he could be a versatile option for Howe.

Como scout Ben Mattinson is a keen admirer of the Betis forward, singling his dribbling ability out for high praise a little under two years ago.

That said, Newcastle have already signed Toure, and bringing in a new central midfielder may be more of a priority, with Bruno Guimaraes' future still in doubt, amid interest from Arsenal.

As such, the Magpies are now ready to launch a move for Inter Milan star Petar Sucic, who has emerged as a target after making 54 appearances in his debut season in Italy, during which his side won the Serie A title.