Will it be a step up? Premier League club targets the Championship's top scorer

Newcastle have shown interest in Middlesbrough striker Will Lankshear, who is enjoying an impressive season in the Championship. According to talkSPORT, club representatives had planned to watch the player in person against Wrexham, but he missed the game through injury.

Lankshear has scored 13 goals in 13 matches and remains the tournament's leading scorer. His prolific form earned him a place on the extended list of 55 candidates for the England squad ahead of the next international break. National team head coach Thomas Tuchel is also monitoring the forward's progress, but the injury prevented him from pushing for his first call-up.

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Newcastle could certainly use reinforcements in attack: after Alexander Isak's departure, the club spent around £180 million on forwards but have yet to get the expected return.

However, a potential move for Lankshear could strain relations with Middlesbrough. The forward joined them from Tottenham for an initial £10 million and is tied to the club by a five-year contract. The London club did not retain a buy-back option.