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Newcastle are closing in on a £17.5million swoop for Greek international Andreas Samaris.

The promoted North East club want the Benfica midfielder to strengthen their squad for the Premier League.

Toon boss Rafa Benitez has been working on a deal for the star for the past six weeks.

Samaris, 28, moved to Benfica in 2014 and has won the title with them the last three years after joining from Olympiacos for £8.8million.

(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

(Image: AFP/Getty Images)

The defensive midfielder has two years left on his contract in Portugal but is keen on a switch to England.

Now a deal is close to bring him to Newcastle using intermediary Cesar Boaventura, CEO of GIC England.

(Image: Getty)

Benitez increased his power at Newcastle after chief scout Graham Carr departed on Wednesday night.

The Newcastle boss has taken total control of new signings and is looking for proven performers as the Magpies return to the top division.