Newcastle United look set to have to endure a fierce fight this summer to retain the services of their club captain, as interest in Jamaal Lascelles is rising significantly.
The Telegraph states Tottenham Hotspur are the latest club to express an interest in the former Nottingham Forest man, joining Chelsea in the hunt for the central defender who could cost around £30m in the market.
Newcastle, understandably, are desperate to retain Lascelles’ services but the offer of Champions League football with Spurs may prove difficult to turn down, especially as it would significantly bolster his chances of forcing his way into Gareth Southgate’s England squad.
24-year-old Lascelles is seen as an ideal defensive recruit for Tottenham, who continue to have uncertainty hover over the head of Toby Alderweireld, but they do have other names on their shortlist, including Ajax youngster Matthijs de Ligt and West Brom’s Jonny Evans.
Contracted with Newcastle until 2023, the Magpies have a strong negotiating position to discuss a huge fee for the defender if he’s to force an exit from St. James’ Park.
