Newcastle United handed fresh Luis Suárez transfer opportunity

Newcastle United could have been handed a fresh opportunity to sign Sporting CP striker Luis Suárez after a turbulent few weeks for the Colombian in Portugal.

The Magpies saw an approach for the 28-year-old rejected earlier this summer, with Sporting insisting any interested club would have to trigger his €80 million release clause. Since then, however, the situation surrounding the prolific forward has changed considerably.

Portuguese reports now suggest Suárez's relationship with Sporting has become strained, while his place in the starting line-up is no longer guaranteed.

Suárez enjoyed a remarkable debut campaign in Lisbon, scoring 38 goals in 53 appearances, making him one of Europe's most sought-after strikers.

However, his summer has been overshadowed by controversy.

A failed move involving Turkish side Fenerbahçe, a disappointing World Cup with Colombia and reports of tension following his return to Sporting have all fuelled speculation over his future.

The striker also found himself at the centre of a training-ground incident last week before being left on the bench for Sporting's league opener, with Fotis Ioannidis preferred in attack.

While Sporting continue to insist they want to keep Suárez, Portuguese newspaper Correio da Manhã believes the striker is showing signs that he wants a new challenge.

A Bola takes a more cautious stance but reports that clubs across Europe are closely monitoring the situation.

Newcastle already know the player well after attempting to sign him earlier this summer, meaning they could be well placed to act if Sporting soften their position or Suárez pushes for a move.

Sporting are still publicly committed to keeping Suárez, but his recent struggles have increased speculation over his future. Newcastle are expected to continue monitoring developments in case the Portuguese champions become more willing to negotiate before the transfer window closes.