Middlesbrough are trying to push through a move for Chelsea defender Robert Huth after tying up the future of midfielder George Boateng.
The managerless Teessiders are not allowing the ongoing search for Steve McClaren's successor get in the way of their summer plans.
McClaren did much of the groundwork for the close season before he was appointed England's new head coach, and chairman Steve Gibson is keen to see that through.
German international Huth (21) is also being chased by Newcastle, Wigan and Aston Villa, while Everton had also expressed an interest before agreeing a fee for Wolves defender Joleon Lescott.
It is understood that Everton were discouraged in their pursuit of Huth by news of the package on offer from Boro.
However, Newcastle are long-term admirers of the player and have shown in the past they are prepared to pay big wages.
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