Newcastle boss Alan Pardew is eyeing up summer moves for defenders Toby Alderweireld and Steven Caulker in an effort to beef up his backline ahead of next season according to the Sunday Sun.
The pair currently rank high on Pardew’s shopping list with Ajax centre back Alderweireld reportedly his primary target after enjoying a phenomenal season at the Amsterdam Arena.
The 23-year-old Belgium international has forged an impressive partnership with fellow countryman Jan Vertonghen, another United target, and has suitably impressed club scouts with a series of imposing displays.
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Standing at 6ft 1in tall Alderweireld would directly challenge Steven Taylor for a place in the side and give the Magpies defensive cover they’ve lacked in recent years. Pardew failed in his attempt to bring Adrian Mariappa from Watford in the January transfer window but will use the summer to bolster his back four.
He’s also keeping an eye on Tottenham defender Steven Caulker who has shone on loan at Premier League newcomers Swansea City this season. The England under-21 has shone during his spell at the Liberty Stadium although he will return to North London in May after manager Brendan Rodgers opted against making the deal permanent.
That has alerted Pardew who could make a move for the 20-year-old who has been tipped as a future senior England centre half and could move to St James’ Park for a nominal fee.
Jan Vertonghen or his cheaper team mate ?
Why not both ? If we go for the cheaper one that is so much the better if he is also the better one for us .
It’ll be one of Alderweireld and Vertonghen by the looks of things. Both are likely to command a hefty fee considering they are the first choice pairing for Ajax.
Would like to see us sign Caulker as well. Looks incredibly composed and mature for his age. Would provide solid backup to Taylor and Coloccini.