Newcastle United have told Fulham they are willing to sell striker Aleksandar Mitrovic this summer – but only if the Whites match their £20m asking price.

A Sky Sports report this afternoon discloses that Newcastle are confident that Mitrovic’s recent form for both club and country – and the possibility that he could shine during this month’s World Cup with Serbia – means they will not be short of offers for the striker, who spent six months at Craven Cottage at the end of last season. Mitrovic is unlikely to feature in Rafa Benitez’s plans for the new campaign and Magpies owner Mike Ashley is sure to drive as hard a bargain as possible.

Mitrovic, who has two years to run on his current contract at St. James’ Park, has publicly expressed an interest in turning his loan spell with Fulham into a permanent transfer. The former Anderlecht forward, who was set for a return to Belgium in January until the deal broke down and he teamed up with compatriot Slavisa Jokanovic at Fulham, scored 12 goals in 20 league appearances as the Whites won the Championship play-offs. Jokanovic has reportedly made the signing of Mitrovic his top priority as he prepares to lead Fulham back into the Premier League.

A deal for £20m would make the 23 year-old Fulham’s record signing – and would be a significant statement of intent ahead of the club’s return to the top flight. Fulham are known to be keen to strengthen their attacking options and had an £8m bid for Swansea forward Jordan Ayew rejected by the Welsh club yesterday.