Newcastle have made Fulham midfielder Tom Cairney their top priority transfer signing in the summer if the Magpies are promoted to the Premier League, according to the Northern Echo.
Although publicly manager Rafa Benitez has placed heavy emphasis on the club’s final eight league matches of the campaign to secure promotion, behind the scenes the Spaniard has been working hard with the club’s recruitment team to draw up a list of summer transfer targets.
The Northern Echo report that the Magpies are keen to strengthen a number of positions but central midfielder is the main priority. Benitez is keen on greater creativity in the middle of the park and he has set his sights on landing Cairney.
The 26 year old has impressed for Fulham this season, with nine goals and 11 assists in 41 games, and was again impressive when he helped the Cottagers to a 3-1 against the Magpies at St James’ Park earlier this month.
Newcastle were put off by Fulham’s £20m valuation when they made an approach in January, but they are likely to return in the summer if they have Premier League football.
