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Newcastle United’s first move for Victor Froholdt has not changed Porto’s position. The Portuguese champions are now taking an even firmer stance over any potential transfer. The Magpies recently contacted the midfielder’s representatives to explore the conditions of a possible move. This comes as they prepare for Bruno Guimarães’ expected switch to Arsenal. That enquiry never reached Porto directly, but it has done nothing to soften the club’s resolve. Porto dig heels in According to Correio da Manhã, André Villas-Boas will reject any offer below Froholdt’s €85m (£73.4m) release clause. That sounds like a tougher stance than previous reports from Portugal, which suggested Porto would consider negotiating for a fee close to the clause. The latest update leaves far less room for interpretation. The newspaper also makes clear there has still been no official contact from Newcastle United. Despite reports the Premier League club are preparing an offer after speaking to the player’s agents, Porto have not received an approach or a bid. Porto are also well aware Newcastle United could be one of the few clubs capable of matching such demands after raising huge sums through the departures of Sandro Tonali, Anthony Gordon and the expected sale of Bruno Guimarães. Why Porto are so relaxed Porto are in no rush to change their position either. Froholdt remains one of the cornerstones of Francesco Farioli’s squad after his outstanding role in last season’s title-winning campaign, and the club see him as a key figure for their return to the Champions League. Just as importantly, there is no sign the player is pushing for a move. The Denmark international has already spoken about wanting to stay at the Dragão, leaving Porto under little pressure to compromise if Newcastle decide to formalise their interest. Meanwhile, of course, Newcastle’s need for a replacement if Bruno Guimarães joins Arsenal has not changed. It’s just Porto’s message that has become much stronger. If the Magpies decide to move beyond talks with Froholdt’s representatives, Correio da Manhã say André Villas-Boas has already made it clear where negotiations would begin – and where they may well end.