The former Newcastle United and Manchester City goalkeeper believes Rafa Benitez’s side need new recruits in four positions.
Shay Given has responded when asked where old club Newcastle United need to strengthen during the summer transfer window.
Newcastle have encountered a difficult market following their promotion back to the top flight, with Christian Atsu and Florian Lejeune their only new recruits so far.
Given, who spent 12 years of his career at St James’ Park, believes the Magpies need at least four more additions “of real Premier League class”.
Shay Given in his Newcastle United days
And, speaking as a guest on Talksport’s Alan Brazil Sports Breakfast show this morning [Wednesday], Given suggested that a former teammate of his would be “a good fit” for Rafa Benitez’s team.
“They’ve been linked heavily with Pepe Reina, the goalkeeper, they’ve obviously looked at that department,” the Irishman said.
“He [Joe Hart] would be a good fit for me, I think he’s a top Premier League goalkeeper. So the goalkeeper’s department, you could probably say the spine of the team.
“They could do with a centre-half, a centre-midfielder and a striker of real Premier League class. Now can they attract that kind of player? Will they pay the wages? Will they pay the big transfer fee? That is the million dollar question?”
England’s Joe Hart
The 30-year-old dislodged Given as the Citizens’ number one at the start of the decade.
Would Hart be a good signing for Newcastle?
Receive exclusive football transfer news and updates twice a week to your mailbox
