The reported Newcastle United target has spent nearly a decade at Stoke.
Stoke City captain Ryan Shawcross
Newcastle United boss Rafa Benitez has made Ryan Shawcross his top summer target, the Independent reports.
The Magpies look set to return to the Premier League at the first time of asking and Benitez is said to want to overhaul his squad, building a new one around the Stoke City centre-back.
Shawcross has spent nearly a decade at the Bet 365 Stadium, although his deal has been allowed to enter its final 15 months.
And this, the Independent claims, has given Benitez encouragement that he can lure the once-capped England international to Newcastle.
Newcastle United manager Rafael Benitez
Shawcross, who captains Stoke, has played 376 times since signing from first club Manchester United.
The 29-year-old’s arrival at St James’ Park would almost certainly prompt the departure of at least one Newcastle centre-back, with Chancel Mbemba and Grant Hanley perhaps most at risk.
First-choice pairing Ciaran Clark and Jamaal Lascelles have impressed at the heart of the Magpies’ back line this season.
Would Shawcross be a good signing for Newcastle United?
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