Newcastle United reportedly want Leicester City captain Wes Morgan – and the deal could have major ramifications for Rafael Benitez.
Just 12 months after Wes Morgan hoisted the Premier League trophy above his head and scribed his name into footballing folklore, the veteran centre-back could bid farewell to Leicester City.
According to The Sun, Newcastle United are keen on the influential Foxes skipper with manager Rafael Benitez wanting more leadership and top flight experience to reinforce a defence that appeared far from watertight in the final weeks of their title-winning Championship season.
However, the move certainly jars with owner Mike Ashley’s divisive transfer policy. During the Sports Direct tycoon’s tumultuous reign at St James’ Park, the club have largely prioritised young, cheap players with a potential re-sale value.
Consequently, many fans have accused Ashley of running the club like a business with profit seeking coming at the expense of sporting success as star players are sold and inadequate, affordable replacements signed in their place.
However, if Newcastle make a move for a 33-year-old centre-back this summer, it would be a major indication that Ashley has compromised his own blueprint in order to keep Benitez happy.
Compromise
While the billionaire has not been afraid to fire managers at the drop of a hat, he will be aware that Benitez could walk out of Newcastle at any point and have countless clubs throwing themselves at him.
The Magpies cannot do any better than the one-time Champions League winner and Ashley should know that.
Therefore, after Benitez made clear that he was not happy with the complete lack of transfer activity in January, amid reports in The Mirror that Ashley had reinstated his policy, it appears that the owner has once again taken a backwards step.
And Newcastle fans around the country will rejoice. Signing Morgan would not merely provide a solid, reliable centre-back – it would also prove that Benitez is in charge.
It could also be vital in keeping him at the club.
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