Newcastle United face Danilo transfer challenge as Palmeiras reveal player’s preference

Newcastle United's pursuit of Botafogo midfielder Danilo Santos could become more complicated after Palmeiras president Leila Pereira claimed the Brazilian is keen to return to his former club this summer.

The Magpies have been strongly linked with the 25-year-old in recent weeks as they assess midfield reinforcements, but Palmeiras believe they have one significant advantage over their Premier League rivals – the player's own preference.

Speaking during a press conference, Pereira confirmed that Palmeiras remain in active negotiations with both Botafogo and Danilo's representatives.

Pereira insisted the Brazilian club are continuing to work on a deal and suggested Danilo would welcome a return to Palmeiras if an agreement can be reached.

"As I said, we are indeed still interested in the player, but we have no new information for you journalists," Pereira said.

"Director Anderson Barros has been in almost daily contact with Botafogo and Danilo's agents. Our interest remains, and we are working towards signing him. He wants to return home. I believe that, but it also depends on Botafogo. He wants to come to Palmeiras."

According to reports in Brazil, Palmeiras have already submitted an official offer worth €20 million, although Botafogo are holding out for around €40 million.

Zenit St Petersburg have also entered the race with a reported €30 million bid, leaving Palmeiras to consider improving their proposal or including players as part of the deal.

Newcastle's interest has been well documented, with recent reports suggesting the midfielder's representatives are keen to explore a move to St James' Park.

Danilo is represented by Bertolucci Sports, the same agency that also looks after Bruno Guimarães. Speculation has suggested the agency sees the Botafogo midfielder as a potential long-term addition should Newcastle eventually lose Guimarães amid continued links with Arsenal.

However, if Pereira's comments accurately reflect the player's intentions, Newcastle may first need to convince Danilo that a move to the Premier League is a more attractive option than returning to Palmeiras.

For now, Botafogo remain in a strong negotiating position. With multiple clubs interested and a reported €40 million valuation, they are under little pressure to lower their demands while the race for the midfielder continues.

Negotiations are expected to continue as Palmeiras consider improving their offer, while Newcastle monitor developments from England. Unless Botafogo reduce their asking price, any interested club will likely need to submit a significantly improved proposal before a transfer can progress, with the player's preferred destination also set to play an important role.

Should Newcastle push ahead with a move for Danilo despite his reported desire to return to Palmeiras, or focus on alternative midfield targets this summer?