OPINION
There is no doubt that Newcastle United are heading for a summer of change as Rafa Benitez attempts to put together a squad capable of challenging in the top-half, but there are some things that must stay in place at St. James’ Park.
One of those is captain Jamaal Lascelles, who has taken his game to another level this season and proved that he can mix it with the best in the Premier League.
However, the Magpies may well be in danger of losing their talisman this summer, with the Mirror reporting that Everton are lining up a £25million swoop for the 24-year-old.
The newspaper also claim that two of the division’s biggest-hitters are lurking in the background, with Tottenham and Chelsea having watched Lascelles in action this season.
While there is no suggestion yet of Lascelles inclinations this summer, the Magpies must drop everything and do all in their power to prevent such a move from going through.
If there is one player in the current squad that Benitez will not want to lose it is his captain, who has been exceptional for the Toon all season.
To lose him this summer would be unthinkable for Newcastle, who would have a massive rebuilding job on their hands in defence if that happens.
Actually, replacing him on the pitch would be the easy part, as it is Lascelles influence in the dressing room that is totally indispensable to the club right now.
Losing one of the only leaders in the squad would leave a supermassive black hole at St. James’ Park, and there are very few players who would be able to step up to fill that gap.
A Lascelles exit could also have a domino effect and see other big players in the group up sticks and leave, with the 24-year-old acting as a glue to keep this squad together.
Newcastle must therefore pull up every tree they can to make sure Lascelles remains at St. James’ Park next season, with the repercussions too great if he goes.
