"I can confirm we have agreed a fee with Inter Milan for Martins," Newcastle chairman Freddy Shepherd told the club's official website.

"It is now up to the player and agent to agree terms on offer."

Although the Magpies didn't reveal any financial details, BBC Sport estimated the deal at £10 million.

The 21-year-old international has been keen on a move out of San Siro after the arrival of Zlatan Ibrahimovic from Juventus and Hernan Crespo from Chelsea.

Martins said on Monday that he became so close from signing a contract at St. James Park.

"I'm close to moving to Newcastle despite all the initial setbacks," he said. "Eighty percent of the deal with Newcastle is completed."