Newcastle manager Rafa Benitez has drawn up an “extensive list” of defensive targets for the summer, according to the Daily Mail.
The Spaniard is believed to be prioritising deals for Stoke captain Ryan Shawcross, Leicester City captain Wes Morgan or Manchester City centre back Eliaquim Mangala.
Shawcross has one year left on his contract with the Potters and has yet to sign a new deal to stay at the Bet365 stadium. 33 year old Morgan meanwhile could be replaced at the Foxes by a younger player after also being sidelined with a back injury this season.
City’s Mangala could be the likeliest player to make the switch to St James’ Park. The French international is currently on loan at Valencia but won’t be making a permanent move to Spain in the summer. He is deemed surplus to requirements at the Etihad stadium and will be allowed to leave for a fraction of the £26million they paid Porto for the defender three years ago.
