Newcastle should look to move in Anderlecht’s highly-rated midfielder Leander Dendoncker this summer
Rafa Benitez is looking to bolster his Newcastle squad for next term, and Leander Dendoncker would be a fantastic addition at St James’ Park.
The 23-year-old Belgium international recent pipped Roma’s Radja Nainggolan to a World Cup place, after impressing national team manager Roberto Martinez.
West Ham have been consistently linked with the midfielder since the January window, when they allegedly had a bid rejected according to Sky Sports, but Newcastle should consider joining the race.
The Magpies were delighted after seemingly securing the future of highly-touted play-maker Mikel Merino last week, amid speculation of the Spaniard returning to La Liga, and along-side Dendoncker he could finally start to justify comparisons to the likes of Liverpool legend Xabi Alonso.
Dendoncker is renowned for his defensive qualities, screening the defence similarly to Manchester United’s Nemanja Matic, but he has the ability to spot a pass, with his versatility allowing him to double as a ball-playing centre-back.
Placed behind both Merino and a recently rejuvenated Jonjo Shelvey, Newcastle would arguably boast one of the finest midfields in the Premier League, and at the ages of 21, 23 and 26 respectively, all three could further develop under the tutelage of Benitez.
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