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Reported target Nicolas N’Koulou is the exact kind of defender Newcastle need

Nicolas N'Koulou of Torino FC in action during the serie A match between SSC Napoli and Torino FC at Stadio San Paolo on May 6, 2018 in Naples, Ita...
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Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing the Cameroonian ace.

Nicolas N'Koulou of Torino Fc in action during the Serie A match between ACF Fiorentina and Torino FC at Stadio Artemio Franchi on October 25, 2017 in Florence, Italy.

According to a report from French media outlet L’Equipe, Newcastle are one of three clubs interested in signing Torino defender Nicolas N’Koulou, and the Cameroonian ace is exactly the type of player the Magpies need.

The 28-year-old joined Torino initially on loan from Lyon in the summer of 2017, before the Serie A outfit exercised their option to make his switch a permanent one at the end of last season.

L’Equipe claims that Torino could be ready to make a quick profit on N’Koulou, however, and Newcastle are monitoring the centre-back’s situation in Turin.

If Rafa Benitez does manage to bring the Cameroon international to St James’ Park, it could turn out to be a signing of real significance for the Toon.

Standing at 6ft tall, the 28-year-old isn’t the tallest of central defenders, but he possesses an incredible leap – one that more than makes up for his lack of height.

Torino's Cameroonese defender Nicolas N'Koulou (L) jumps for the ball with Juventus' Brazilian defender Alex Sandro during the Italian Serie A football match Torino vs Juventus on February...

He is also incredibly quick along the ground, and has the uncanny knack of being able to anticipate danger before it truly develops.

N’Koulou is extensively experienced in playing at the very highest level for a prolonged period of time, having spent spells with Monaco, Marseille, Lyon and now Torino, whilst he has also earned 75 international caps for his country.

The Torino ace is tenacious in the tackle, and always plays with 100 per cent commitment. He is a real top class defender, and if Rafa brings him to Tyneside, Newcastle will be in a great position from which to make a real push for the European spots this season.

Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez looks on during the Premier League match between Manchester United and Burnley at Old Trafford on December 26, 2017 in Manchester, England.