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Newcastle United have been told to forget about trying to sign transfer target Aleksandar Mitrovic.

The Magpies are one of the clubs linked to the 20-year-old, top-scorer in last season’s Belgian Pro League. There were even rumours Newcastle had agreed a fee for the Serbian.

Mitrovic scored 20 league goals last season, and already has 11 international caps.

Of most interest to the Magpies will be his performances in Europe, scoring goals in the Champions and Europa Leagues.

In the eyes of Anderlecht general manager Herman van Holsbeeck, that makes him far too valuable a commodity to consider selling.

He said: “At 20, Mitrovic has scored 20 league goals this season.

“He scored against Arsenal, Dortmund and has also played for Serbia. This is a striker who you know can improve a side.

“Therefore, we have decided against selling him. Mitro is aware and he wants to stay.”

Newcastle are in real need of a proven goalscorer next season,

Papiss Cisse was their only player into double figures but the Senegal international seems to be constantly linked with moves away and missed large parts of the 2014-15 campaign – largely with knee trouble but also a seven-match ban for spitting.

With another transfer window about to open, Cisse’s name is again being bandied about.

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Crystal Palace, who have also been linked with former Newcastle midfielder Yohan Cabaye, are one of the clubs mentioned. Ayoze Perez exceeded expectations last season after moving from Spanish second division side Tenerife.

He scored seven goals but was less effective in the second half of the season.

Perez has been linked with a loan move although if a move for David Concha – a close friend and fellow Spaniard of similar pedigree – comes off they may feel it best to keep him at St James’ Park. United are not expected to have a coach in place until Steve McClaren returns from holiday next week but such decisions would probably bypass him anyway.

The relegated pair of Charlie Austin and Danny Ings – a free agent this summer – have also been linked but having proven their worth in the Premier League with Queen’s Park Rangers and Burnley respectively, they will not be short of offers.

Meanwhile, Newcastle have confirmed a pre-season programme which features a tour of America but domestic fixtures which will not involve too much travelling. Borussia Moenchengladbach provide the opposition for the only home game.

Matches (all kick-offs UK time): Gateshead A (July 10, 8pm), Club Atlas (Milwaukee, July 15, 2am), Sacramento Republic A (July 19, 4am), Portland Timbers A (July 22, 3.30am), Sheffield United A (July 26, 1pm), York City A (July 29, 7.45pm), Borussia Moenchengladbach H (Aug 1, 3pm)