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.
[ad_pod id=’unruly-video’ align=’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.
NothingButNewcastle.com is looking for writers. If you love the Toon get in touch at nothingbutnewcastle@snack-media.com
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!
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