Watford target Allan Saint-Maximin could be set join Newcastle United within 48 hours, according to reports in the North East.

The Shields Gazette has reported that representatives from the Magpies flew out of the country last night as they move closer to completing a deal.

The winger has been heavily linked with a move to Vicarage Road throughout the summer, with club representatives believed to have been in touch with the player's.

Following a falling out with manager Patrick Vieira, the 22-year-old looks set to leave Nice this summer, with the club reportedly dropping their valuation to help encourage a move.

The Nice boss has previously told French media that Saint-Maximin is not willing to work hard enough.

"Allan's problem is unfortunately that he thinks his talent is enough to reach the very highest level," said Vieira.

"He must understand that he needs to work and to make sacrifices. He needs to suffer. And unfortunately, he is yet to understand that."

According to the Shields Gazette, Newcastle are on the verge of making their second signing of the summer transfer window, after they signed Brazilian Joelinton for £40m on Tuesday evening.

Joelinton and Saint-Maximin are believed to share the same agent.

Meanwhile, Watford retain an interest in Ismaila Sarr and are the only club to have made contact with Rennes regarding the player, according to the club president Olivier Letang.

Letang suggested that he is confident Sarr will stay, but his mind could change if Watford were to up their offer.