Newcastle United boss Rafael Benitez is hoping to bolster his defensive options this summer.

Benitez had to play the entirety of this campaign with a flat-back four, but would like to use a system which incorporates three central-defenders next season.
The variants of the 3-5-2 formation have become very popular in the Premier League.

And Benitez is eyeing up a new centre-back, as he wants to increase his options in the heart of his defence.
Benitez wants at least four central defenders at Newcastle to ensure he has enough numbers to play with a three-man backline.

Newcastle are hoping to keep hold of Jamaal Lascelles, Ciaran Clark and Florian Lejeune.
However, Benitez may well sell Chancel Mbemba, with the powerful centre-back looking most likely to move to Anderlecht, according to reports.
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