Newcastle United are reportedly keen on Stoke City defender Ryan Shawcross.
Swansea City’s Fernando Llorente in action with Stoke City’s Ryan Shawcross
With Newcastle on the verge of promotion back to the Premier League, they will be linked with a host of new signings this summer – and one major name is already being touted for a move to Tyneside.
The Independent reported earlier today that The Magpies are keen to raid Stoke City, with manager Rafael Benitez looking to bring defender Ryan Shawcross to St. James’ Park.
The 29-year-old centre back joined Stoke from Manchester United back in 2007 having come up through the ranks at Old Trafford, and he has now racked up close to 400 appearances for the Potters.
Currently Stoke’s club captain and something of an icon throughout Stoke’s time in the Premier League, Shawcross is a key player under Mark Hughes – but his contract situation means he could leave.
The 6ft 3in defender, who has one England cap to his name, is out of contract at the end of next season, meaning Newcastle will hope to tempt Stoke into a deal this summer before he walks away for nothing in 2018.
It’s stated that Benitez wants a ‘strong, reliable centre back to build around’ in the Premier League, and whilst he has the likes of Jamaal Lascelles, Ciaran Clark and Chancel Mbemba, Shawcross would bring a veteran presence to the Newcastle defence.
Stoke City’s Ryan Shawcross in action with Everton’s Romelu Lukaku
With the rumours emerging today, Newcastle fans have taken to Twitter to react, with some suggesting that Shawcross is exactly what the Magpies need, urging owner Mike Ashley to get the deal done.
Many want to see Shawcross playing alongside Clark in the Newcastle defence, and whilst some aren’t so keen on him joining the Magpies, the general consensus is that this would be an impressive capture for Newcastle as they prepare for their return to the top flight.
Would you like to see Newcastle sign Shawcross?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
