Newcastle United have made a £2m bid for Nancy full-back Massadio Haidara, according to reports.
The Magpies face competition from Serie A side Roma, who are also believed to be courting the French Under-21 international.
Haidara has let it be known that he would prefer a move to the Italian capital, but Sky Sports News now reports that manager Alan Pardew has made the first move.
"I prefer Roma to Newcastle, as I prefer Serie A," TMW quotes Haidara as saying.
"I'd love to play in Italy, though Newcastle are also a good team."
The 20-year-old was linked with a move to Aston Villa in the summer.