Newcastle United are showing an interest in signing Everton defender Mason Holgate in January as boss Eddie Howe seeks additions.
Sky Sports report that Holgate is one of the defenders on Howe’s wish list with the January window just days away.
With Newcastle struggling defensively, adding centre backs has to be a focus in January and Everton ae Holgate could arrive.
Holgate struggling for action at Everton
It’s not all that long ago that defender Holgate was being talked up as a potential England international.
Holgate hasn’t nailed down a role under Rafael Benitez though, starting just five Premier League games.
The 25-year-old may now feel that the time is right to leave Everton and play first-team football elsewhere.
Newcastle can offer that escape route, which may well appeal to Holgate come January.
Newcastle refused to sign Holgate just months ago
What’s interesting is that Newcastle were actually offered the chance to sign Holgate in August.
The Telegraph claimed that Holgate was offered up to Newcastle, but the Magpies refused to strike a deal because there would have been a loan fee.
Mike Ashley put the block on Steve Bruce’s hopes of signing Holgate, summing up the frustration of that era.
Even when a decent Premier League player became available on loan, Newcastle wouldn’t make a move.
The Magpies now have new owners in PIF, who won’t be quite as shy with cash.
Money won’t be anywhere near as tight now, and Newcastle could finally sign Holgate after all.
Newcastle would then have to hope and pray that Holgate is worth the wait.
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