Newcastle United are in the hunt for Espanyol centre-back David Lopez, according to Pericos Online.
The Spanish outlet claim that Magpies manager Rafa Benitez wants a reunion with Lopez after the 28-year-old player under him at Serie A side Napoli.
Pericos Online report that Tottenham Hotspur are also interested, as are Valencia, with the 6ft 1in enforcer [Transfermarkt] having a release clause set at £35million.
Good move for Newcastle United?
Yes.
Lopez put in an impressive season for Espanyol as the Barcelona-based side finished eleventh in La Liga, and it is no surprise that he is attracting interest from some big clubs.
While the preferred Magpies centre-back pairing of Jamaal Lascelles and Florian Lejeune should remain untouched, Lopez would be a brilliant option to provide support for that duo.
The 28-year-old is also versatile, being able to play a holding midfield role, and that would be another bonus for the Magpies should they win the race for his signature.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 8/10
Likely to happen?
It looks like there will be heavy competition for Lopez this summer, with Spurs boss Mauricio Pochettino said to have called Lopez personally.
With Valencia also lurking this one will not be easy for Newcastle, especially considering Lopez’s £35million release clause.
The Magpies may be better off looking elsewhere, although Benitez’s previous relationship with Lopez may work in their favour.
Nothing but Newcastle rating: 2/10
