Newcastle United are now reportedly targeting both Ethan Amapdu and Malang Sarr before the summer transfer window ends.

The Lowdown: Defensive improvement needed

Given the 4-2 hammering at home to West Ham United on the opening weekend of the new 2021/22 Premier League season, the St. James' Park faithful are in desperate need of some defensive reinforcements before the window shuts.

A new central defender to come straight into the team is surely needed if they are to stop leaking so many goals for the rest of the campaign.

The Latest: Ampadu and Sarr eyed

As per The Daily Express, the North East club are now considering a move to sign either Ampadu or Sarr on loan from Chelsea.

Steve Bruce is interested in bringing in another central defender, but because they cannot register more than two loan players at the same time, they would likely only pick one of Ampadu or Sarr, who are both allowed to leave Stamford Bridge.

The Verdict: Ampadu over Sarr

If the Tyneside club can only sign one of them, then they should be looking at getting Ampadu in over Sarr.

Once dubbed a 'manager's dream' by former Wales manager Ryan Giggs while on international duty back in 2018, the Transfermarkt).

Meanwhile, Sarr has not yet played for the Blues since signing for them, and the £9m-rated man does not have the ability to play in midfield and offer that extra versatility and depth (Transfermarkt).

Nonetheless, the Magpies need to bring a new centre-back in, and fast.

In other news, find out which 'talented' ace is now allowed to leave NUFC here!