Newcastle United target Matt Ritchie as Andros Townsend replacement?

Matt Ritchie of Bournemouth reacts during the friendly match between 1899 Hoffenheim and AFC Bournemouth at Wirsol Rhein-Neckar-Arena on August 1, 2015
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Bournemouth winger Matt Ritchie emerges as a rumoured target for Newcastle United, who face the prospect of losing Andros Townsend to a Premier League club.

Newcastle United will look to sign Matt Ritchie from Bournemouth should they lose Andros Townsend this summer, according to a report.

A raft of Premier League clubs are understood to have shown an interest in the Magpies winger, who is thought to have a £10.5m release clause written into his contract.

It is claimed by Chronicle Live that United have been offered the chance to sign Ritchie - a player who knows the second tier well, having helped the Cherries to promotion in 2015 with 11 goals and 15 assists.

The Scotland international is himself said to be on the radar of a number of teams, however, which could force Newcastle into making a swift move.

Ritchie made 48 appearances for club and country last season, scoring six goals from his wide midfield position.

Andros Townsend celebrates scoring with his allegedly 'stunning' free kick during the Premier League game between Newcastle United and Crystal Palace on April 30, 2016
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