Among the multiple additions Rafa Benitez - or whoever else is in charge of the Magpies - needs to make after this season, the midfield will surely be a key part of the overhaul.

Indeed, with Isaac Hayden seemingly pondering a move away and Jonjo Shelvey linked away, there’s a need for a reliable, steely midfielder to hold down the fort.

The Magpies are looking for an emerging midfield prospect and according to reports (as per the Northern Echo), they’re targeting Fulham’s, Tom Cairney, who is valued at £13.5 million (by Transfermarkt). The 28-year-old was one of the few bright sparks in the Cottagers' dismal season, displaying courage and willingness to hold down their midfield line.

Linked with a move to St. James' Park in January 2017 too, it seems like there is a long-standing interest in the Scotland international up on Tyneside.

In order to get this deal go through, Mike Ashley could be aiming to use loanee Dwight Gayle as bait considering Fulham’s apparent liking for the striker. Indeed, at this point, it could be a beneficiary swap move for both parties, as Newcastle would get their long-term midfield general. Cairney’s done really well in maintaining intensity in midfield, recording 55% tackling success, 123 ball recoveries, 110 duels won in 28 appearances (stats via Premier League).

Not only that, but he’s also averaged 42 passes per game and showcased signs of creativity by putting through some clever passes to his attackers. Creativity has been a problem at St. James' Park for a while now - outside of Shelvey - so a move for the ex-Leeds United would certainly move to address that. A player who can help his dominate games and also act as an industrial figure to hound opponents, he'd set up according to Newcastle’s style pretty well.

Imagine how nice it'd be to have someone really feeding Miguel Almiron next season. Indeed, the Fulham man has the ability to pick the passes that can get the South American into dangerous positions and he has the ability to drag defenders towards him, which will create even more space for Almiron.

Toon fans. Hugely, hugely exciting.

Cairney’s quite different to whatever the Magpies have now, he possesses commanding traits to add courage to Newcastle’s midfield. As a potential replacement for Shelvey, he's about the best the Magpies can hope for.

Newcastle fans, would you be pleased with Cairney's potential arrival? Join the discussion by commenting below...