Newcastle United are understood to have an interest in Ollie Watkins, the highly-coveted Brentford forward.
The Magpies need a forward and despite the budget being crunched by the economic consequences of the pandemic, they are actively looking to do deals.
Loans and free agents may be part of their strategy but United have some money to spend and it's understood Watkins is one of the players identified as part of months of preparation for the close season.
Although the coronavirus pandemic has knocked plans - and the takeover has proved a huge distraction from work being done - the 24-year-old is highly-rated and would compliment Newcastle's style.
It's understood Brentford are looking to bank a Championship record fee for Watkins - in excess of £16million - but would be prepared to deal with Newcastle. Crystal Palace and Leeds have also been linked.
Ironically, Bruce's son Alex recently told Football Insider the player deserved a chance in the Premier League.
"He’s a good player, an unproven Premier League player so it always carries that risk when someone hasn’t played in the league before," he said.
"However, I think he’s an excellent player and he’s proven what a good player he is in the Championship this year and he deserves a chance in the Premier League."
The Magpies are going to have to box smart in the close season transfer window with Mike Ashley telling Bruce to work on plans for next term without the takeover.
Meanwhile, it's understood the consortium still interested in buying Newcastle United remain in dialogue and there is little sign of the group winding down, despite withdrawing interest a little over a week ago.
They continue to hold conference calls looking at possible next moves while pressure mounts on the Premier League to react to the takeover issues.
There were claims that Ashley remains in dialogue with the group and is looking to find a solution to the takeover impasse.
