Is this Dutch international heading to St James’ Park in the summer?
Newcastle are reportedly ready to reignite their interest in PSV Eindhoven defender Erik Pieters with boss Alan Pardew making a left back his top priority in the summer transfer window.
The 23-year-old Holland international was a target last year following the exit of Jose Enrique although a deal never transpired although Pardew still keen to bring in a specialist following a series of low-par displays from Davide Santon. The 21-year-old Italian had a shocker against Arsenal on Monday turning in one of his poorest displays in a black and white shirt and prompting calls for him to be switched over to the right.
It seems as if the Magpies boss is ready to heed that advice with the former Inter Milan full back being earmarked as the club’s new long-term right back ahead of current first choice Danny Simpson who is yet to agree a new contract. That would open up a spot on the left that Pardew is eager to fill with Pieters of whom he’s held a long-standing interest.
With a place in Europe now looking a distant possibility Pardew is eager to bolster his defensive options after watching his back four take a pummelling on several occasions during the second half of the season.
The Dutchman, who has just recovered from a four-month injury lay-off, is keen to move to St James’ Park and join fellow countryman Tim Krul at the club although a stumbling block could prove to be the £5 million fee PSV are demanding for his services.
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Newcastle News 24/7
March 17th, 2012
PSV want too much money, and his salary demands are too much. This is why he is not a Newcastle player.
Both the club and Pieters may have come to their senses!
March 17th, 2012
Looks a good player really do a need a centre back, offer FC Twente’s Douglas a pre-contract he looks very good if you do get the pair then that is defence sorted.
Midfield I think we should bring in a winger and possibly a back up centre midfielder.
A very good striker
Douglas Free Pieters £5m
Elia £5m from Juventus and Amalfitano on a bosman
Sigbursson the ladd on loan at Swansea, £5m also.
£15m is spend