Liam Kennedy has identified AC Milan's Franck Kessie as a potential target for Newcastle United. 

The lowdown

Perhaps the key detail regarding Kessie is that he's into the final year of his contract at San Siro. He reportedly rejected the offer of a new deal from Milan in September.

Despite the uncertainty, Kessie has started six games for the Rossoneri so far this season.

He's averaged 2.6 accurate long balls, 1.2 tackles and 1.2 key passes per 90 minutes in Serie A (via WhoScored).

The Ivorian has been hailed as 'a complete player' by Milan boss Stefano Pioli.

The latest

Kennedy, writing for Newcastle World, runs through some 'realistic and ambitious names' which the Toon 'could be looking at'.

Among them is Kessie, who would add 'some much-needed defensive steel to the Magpies midfield'.

Kennedy hails the 24-year-old as a 'super-talented' and 'dominating' figure in the middle of the park.

The verdict

This Newcastle squad is perhaps in need of a new defensive midfielder. Steve Bruce thought so at the start of the summer window, but no deal was feasible.

Kessie is a specialist in the position and could transform it from an area of weakness to a real strength.

What's more, his contract situation means Newcastle could try to sign him on a free transfer, though they will surely face stern competition.

In other news, this blockbuster managerial candidate has one vital condition