Newcastle United need to be busy this summer.
After such a difficult season this time around and a January transfer window limited by FFP restrictions, the club have been tipped to undergo an overhaul.
Whether or not the financial restraints Newcastle continue to be under makes that fully possible remains to be seen of course but few would doubt the idea that signings are needed.
Indeed, the defence will need some strengthening.
Sven Botman will miss a significant period of time due to a second serious knee injury of the season but wasn’t exactly in great form before that blow. Fabian Schar, meanwhile, cannot be expected to go on forever at the age of 32.
Fresh investment there is believed to be on the agenda this summer, with the club reportedly hunting an athletic option to operate on the right side of the defensive two. With Botman facing a long road to recovery, perhaps a new addition on the left side of it is needed too.
Everton’s Jarrad Branthwaite has long been linked with a move up to St James’ Park but it seems Newcastle may have a problem.
Jarrad Branthwaite transfer news: Man City interested in Newcastle target
That’s because, according to the Daily Mail, Premier League champions Manchester City are taking a keen interest in the £60m-rated star.
It is claimed that they are keeping are close eye on the 21-year-old and believe he is showing similar technical traits to John Stones, who has starred for both City and England playing in either defence or midfield.
Manchester United, Real Madrid and Tottenham are also thought to be keen on the defender.
Newcastle transfers: Jarrad Branthwaite may be out of reach
It’s hard to imagine Newcastle being able to beat City or Real Madrid to a potential signing.
While Man United and Spurs might not be huge steps up on Newcastle, the fact they are likely to be able to offer European football next season may complicate matters.
Unless Newcastle are able to make a late run for the top seven, convincing players to join amid interest from other top clubs looks very difficult indeed.
They may have to look elsewhere…
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