Newcastle are reportedly exploring the possibility of snapping up a defensive star from relegated Southampton this summer, although much will depend on how quickly they can complete deals for their top three targets.
Eddie Howe’s men are closing in on the big-name addition of Sandro Tonali from AC Milan, while Leicester’s James Maddison also remains on their radar ahead of the club’s return to the Champions League.
The Toon chief also wants another centre-back on board, with Crystal Palace star Joachim Andersen said to be at the top of his list.
Tonali is expected to cost the St James’ Park outfit around £52million after Newcastle leapt in ahead of Chelsea to land the Italy international.
And while Maddison also remains on Howe’s wanted list, the England man could still end up in London with Tottenham.
However, it’s been well-publicised that Howe wants to add another full-back to his squad, with Arsenal star Kieran Tierney strongly tipped to move to Tyneside.
But it now appears that Saints star Kyle Walker-Peters could be Newcastle bound instead.
The former Tottenham youngster made 20 appearances for Southampton at right-back last season, with a further nine starts coming on the left flank.
And, although the 26-year-old is not expected to come cheap, his price is likely to drop as the summer window progresses.
Saints considering summer moves
The report in the Daily Mail adds that the relegated Saints held a recruitment meeting on Monday afternoon to discuss ins and outs after their return to the Championship.
Southampton also expected to lose top midfielder James Ward-Prowse, who has also previously been linked with Newcastle, while £50m-rated Romeo Lavia is also wanted by Liverpool, Arsenal, Chelsea and Manchester United.
As for Walker-Peters, Newcastle might have to act quicker than they want to get their man, with his old club Spurs tipped to be considering bringing the player back to north London.
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