Newcastle United achieved an excellent tenth placed finish in the Premier League last season, but they will need to strengthen if they are to finish as high as tenth this season.
Magpies player Jamaal Lascelles really stepped up to the plate in a Black & White shirt last season. The 24-year-old was a real presence in the centre of the Newcastle defence, and earned large amounts of praise for his performances. The success of Newcastle United last season rested largely on the clubs solid defensive foundations, as they were light up front throughout the season.
However, whilst there is real Premier League quality in the Newcastle United defence, it is lacking in depth. Defenders such as Paul Dummett, have been singled out for their poor performances. Rafa Benitez could do with greater depth in his side going forward.
Spending might be difficult however, as Mike Ashley seems reluctant to give his Spanish manager a war chest to strengthen with. Aside from the £4m spent on Martin Dubravka, the only arrivals at St James Park have been a season-long loan of Kenedy from Chelsea, and Ki Sung-yeung on a free transfer from relegated Swansea City.
With that in mind, here are three defenders Newcastle should consider signing this summer…
Henrik Dalsgaard has been one of the shining lights in a strong Brentford side. So much so, he was a regular starter for Denmark in the Russia World Cup.
The 28-year-old is in his prime and would make an immediate impact at St James Park. Dalsgaard is valued at £1.35m by Transfermarkt. Even under a tight budget, the Spaniard should be able to bring the player to St James Park.
He would reinforce Rafa Benitez’s options at right-back, and is a very technically proficient player.
Kieran Tierney has proved himself to be an excellent left-back with Celtic, easily one of the best, if not the best, in the Scottish Premiership.
The Isle of Man born 21-year old is valued at £5m by Transfermarkt. He mad 32 appearances in the SPL last season and 55 appearances overall, he is one of the key men in Celtic’s consecutive treble winning sides.
Tierney would come to St James Park with both bags of ability and plenty of potential to improve. He would be a major upgrade on Paul Dummett, and help Rafa Benitez achieve his aims next season.
Ben Gibson is a real talent, and too talented to play at Championship Middlesbrough. A north-east switch could do wonders for both club and player.
This summer, Gibson has been linked with moves to a host of Premier League sides. He would add fantastic depth to the side, but would more than likely come to the club as a first team starter. He’s a real presence and wins aerial battles easily due to his height. He is a calm and composed defender, who could form a great partnership at the back with Lascelles.
Ben Gibson would not come cheap, he is valued at £10m by Transfermarkt.
