‘Howe would like’: Keith Downie shares what the ‘priority’ is at Newcastle as two deals stall

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Sky Sports reporter Keith Downie has provided Newcastle fans with a transfer update, as deals for Sven Botman and Diego Carlos stall.

What’s the story?

Well, Newcastle are trying to sign Sevilla centre-back Diego Carlos after finding a move for Lille’s Botman difficult to complete.

However, the Magpies are having similar issues in negotiations with the Spanish side.

Downie believes it will be tough to prise the Brazilian away from Sevilla while the Spanish outfit are participating in the Europa League.

Now, the “feeling” at Newcastle is that Eddie Howe would prefer a centre-back with Premier League experience to arrive at St James’ Park.

You can see Downie’s tweet in full below.

The North-East correspondent for Sky Sports adds that signing a new centre-back is now the “priority” at Newcastle.

Downie also feels the Magpies will have better luck in their pursuit if they buy a player from the United Kingdom, as opposed to abroad.

Who could Eddie Howe bring to Newcastle?

So, Howe wants a centre-back with Premier League experience.

In that respect, a move for West Ham defender Issa Diop could now move up a gear with Diego Carlos and Botman unlikely to arrive.

The Athletic believe Diop is viewed as the backup option to Diego Carlos.

Additionally, Liverpool’s Nat Phillips and Tottenham’s Joe Rodon find themselves on Newcastle’s shortlist.

The Athletic also believe Bournemouth defender Lloyd Kelly is a target, although he has only made eight Premier League appearances.

In our view, one of Diop, Phillips, Rodon or Kelly will be signed before Deadline Day, with Newcastle desperate for a new centre-back.