Newcastle United are reportedly eyeing a potential move for Nat Phillips in the summer transfer window.

The Lowdown: Centre-back wanted

The St. James' Park faithful have recently been linked with a number of central defenders, including Cameron Carter-Vickers and Omar Colley.

It seems clear that Steve Bruce would like to add to his current options in that area, ahead of the new 2021/22 season.

The Latest: Phillips eyed

As per The Athletic, the North East club, as well as West Ham United, Brighton and Hove Albion, Burnley and Bayer Leverkusen, have all registered an interest in Phillips.

Liverpool currently value the centre-back at £15m, but the amount of teams in the race for his signature could well boost the price up.

The Verdict: Sign

Phillips would be a shrewd signing by the Tyneside club if they can beat off the competition to sign him.

Jurgen Klopp went as far as to claim that he is a 'monster' after a game against RB Leipzig back in March, and his six-foot-two frame would ensure that he is a threat in both boxes for the Magpies.

Phillips was largely impressive when covering for the injured Virgil Van Dijk, Joel Matip and Joe Gomez in the Premier League in the 2020/21 term, winning no fewer than 7.5 0f his duels per game, as well as averaging 4.8 clearances, 1.3 tackles and 1.2 interceptions per match (Sofascore).

Also, being English, he would help fill the home-grown quota, and at 24 years of age, he still has a lot of potential that can be fulfilled at the Toon. He'd be a very good signing for the Magpies.

In other news, find out what 'advanced talks' NUFC have been having in the transfer market here!