Newcastle United are reportedly targeting a move in the January transfer window for Nat Phillips.

The Lowdown: Defensive reinforcements?

The Magpies have conceded the most goals of any team in the Premier League so far this season (30) and currently bottom of the table, so they are in desperate need of some defensive reinforcements next month.

They have recently been linked with the likes of Nathan Ake and James Tarkowski, and with the money that the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia (KSA) consortium can spend, it would not be a surprise to see them bring in one or two new centre-backs.

The Latest: Phillips targeted

As per The Daily Telegraph, Phillips is one name who is now being targeted by the new owners at St James' Park for a potential move to Newcastle in January.

It is unclear how much he would cost, or what kind of wages that he would demand, but he is apparently a name on their shortlist.

The Verdict: Smart move

Signing Phillips would certainly be a smart move from the Magpies, given the Premier League experience that he now has under his belt playing at the highest level with Liverpool.

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Dubbed a 'monster' by Jurgen Klopp back in March, his 6 foot 3 stature gives him an advantage both aerially and physically, emphasised by him winning 7.5 of his duels per game in the top flight last season, including 5.6 in the air (SofaScore).

Described as having a 'heart like a lion' by Reds assistant manager Pepijn Lijnders in April, Phillips might just be up for a relegation battle, and he could yet excel under Eddie Howe given his familiarity with Premier League football.

In other news, NUFC are also keen on this player who has been called a 'manager's dream'