Race on for Samba star

Newcastle face competition from Fulham in the race to sign FC Twente defender Douglas, who will be sold before the deadline.

The Magpies have long been linked with a move for the central defender but have yet to strike a deal with the Dutch club and that has opened the door for Fulham to also make a move. The 24-year-old Brazilian has just 12 months remaining on his current contract and Twente have admitted he will be sold at the right price as they do not want to lose him for nothing next year. Twente Chairman Joop Munsterman has confirmed the Magpies and the Cottagers are in the running and it could come down to where the player wants to go if both are willing to meet the £4.5million asking price. "The clubs [Newcastle and Fulham] have expressed an interest to want to do business," he revealed. "We have not heard anything concrete yet, but if a proper offer is made, we will sell him because he will leave next year on a free transfer."