SEVILLA have reportedly rejected an improved bid from Newcastle for Brazilian defender Diego Carlos.
Eddie Howe is desperate for more defensive reinforcements following the £12million signing of Kieran Trippier from Atletico Madrid.
But a centre-back is what Howe is craving the most, with one offer for Carlos already rebuffed by Sevilla.
And now a second and improved bid has been rejected, as only a 'great' offer from Newcastle would tempt them into a sale, according to GOAL in Spain.
A £25million offer is understood to have already been turned down by the Spaniards.
Sevilla also want a replacement already lined up before allowing Carlos to move on.
But club aren't keen on sanctioning a deal in the winter market, as they know a replacement would be difficult to source midway through the season.
They are insistent that a move for Carlos will be 'on their terms' or not at all, with Newcastle continuing to press for a transfer.
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However, Sevilla are under some pressure to sell, with one player needing to make way before June 30 after the club budgeted on the basis they would progress to the knockout stages of the Champions League.
Instead a third placed finish in their group meant another Europa League campaign awaits.
It's claimed Newcastle 'insist' on getting a deal over the line, after the Magpies failed in their bid to sign Sven Botman from Lille.
A deal for Botman appears to be dead in the water after Lille rejected the Toon's £30million bid earlier this month.
But the club are still hoping a new centre-back can be recruited as soon as possible, and perhaps even in time for Saturday's clash away at Leeds.
And it's Carlos who is seemingly their top target.
The 28-year-old has been an ever-present for Sevilla this campaign, helping them to second in the La Liga table, five points off Real Madrid with a game in hand.
It's reported the Brazilian has a 'juicy' contract offer from Newcastle, but whether he's willing to swap a possible La Liga title race for a Premier League relegation battle remains a different story.
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