NEWCASTLE United are continuing talks to sign Ryan Fraser following his departure from Cherries, according to a report in the Shields Gazette.

Fraser left Cherries when his contract expired in June after more than seven years at the club and is available on a free transfer.

And according to the Gazette, Newcastle remain in hot pursuit for the Scotland international, having also tried to sign him under Rafa Benitez in 2019.

It is not thought the club's failed Saudi takeover will affect their hopes of tempting Fraser to St James' Park.

The report claims Newcastle tried to sign Fraser on a pre-contract agreement in May of this year, but the 26-year-old opted to keep his options open with Crystal Palace and West Ham both linked with a move for the winger.

Fraser was signed by Eddie Howe for Cherries in January 2013, arriving from Aberdeen for around £400,000.

He played 208 times in all competitions for the Dorset club, scoring 24 goals.

Upon his departure, Fraser took to Instagram, posting: “Bournemouth will always hold a special place in my heart and I wish the club and the town nothing but success in the future.”