The Swansea City-owned defender would be a great addition to the Newcastle United squad, after impressing with Leeds United this season.
Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez
Magpies boss Rafa Benitez has a lot of work to do this summer, despite his side’s successful 2016/17 Championship campaign that culminated with their promotion to the Premier League.
One particular area of the Spaniard’s squad that needs addressing is the central defensive department, with the likes of Grant Hanley and Ciaran Clark failing to impress on a consistent enough basis.
With this in mind, an interesting option for Newcastle would be Swansea City’s Kyle Bartley, who spent the entirety of this season’s campaign on loan with Leeds United.
Kyle Bartley in action
The 26-year-old’s future is still far from clear, with a permanent move to the Whites still a possibility, but Benitez should take advantage of any kind of uncertainty by making an early move for the centre-back.
Bartley proved his class last season, appearing in all but one of Leeds’ 46 Championship games, and was the bedrock of their solid defensive displays.
The 6ft 4in defender would add a certain level of authority to the Toon’s backline, and could form a formidable partnership with Jamaal Lascelles. His experience of playing at the highest level could also prove to be an asset for Benitez’ side, who currently have a distinctly Championship feel to them.
Kyle Bartley celebrates
The former Arsenal and Rangers man is under contract at the Liberty Stadium until the summer of 2018, so something will have to give during the off-season, regarding his future.
Whether the Swans would be willing to sell to a Premier League rival, however, is another matter all-together.
And with the opening of the transfer window just around the corner, this will be one to keep a close eye on.
Kyle Bartley
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