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The 28-year-old was prolific in his first season for Portuguese side Sporting CP last season, netting 36 goals in 41 appearances in all competitions for the Leões.

And, according to the Jornal de Notícias, his form was enough to convince Toon chiefs to offer a whopping €40m (£35m) to bring him to St James’ Park this summer.

That figure represents more than double their transfer record – £16m to acquire Michael Owen in 2005 – but it proved insufficient regardless as Sporting negotiators hold out Dost’s €60m (£52m) release clause to be activated.

(Image: GETTY/YOUTUBE)

Standing at 6ft 5ins, Dost is merely two inches shorter than lanky Peter Crouch.

Yet, as the video demonstrates, his movement off the ball seems far more natural and fluid than his British counterpart.

Blessed with the intangible ability to be in the right place at the right time, a large percentage of his monster haul of goals saw him finish off loose balls in the area.

But he also offers Newcastle an attacking threat from set pieces – something fans will be delighted about given their historically bad record in that department during their previous stint in the Premier League.

Coach Rafa Benitez tried lure the Dutchman to the north-east last summer, according to The Chronicle, but supporters will be hoping the Spaniard can seal the deal this time around as pre-season fixtures begin to loom large.

(Image: GETTY)

“He was great last season, 34 goals in 31 league games,” said one fan.

“Wouldn’t like this deal for €60m [£52m] though.”

Another added: “I honestly can't imagine us spending that kind of money.

“Fair play if we do though.”

It comes as the club were also linked to Brazilian winger Jonathan Cafu, with Ludogorets said to be holding out for £12m to allow the speed merchant to leave the Bulgarian side.