‘Love the opportunity’: Newcastle are now desperate to bring ‘monumental’ defender to SJP - journalist

By Ben Evans

Newcastle United will hope they’re at the beginning of their journey to become one of England’s strongest clubs once again.

The squad is slowly taking shape under Eddie Howe, and results this season have been exemplary.

A report from Pete O’Rourke, via Give Me Sport, suggests Howe is continuing to look for new players.

Newcastle haven’t gone overboard on bringing new faces to the club in Howe’s time.

Although the likes of Alexander Isak and Bruno Guimaraes were expensive incomings, they’ve not been joined by hordes of new players.

Identifying the correct talent rather than using a more scattergun approach has certainly benefitted them.

O’Rourke now believes Newcastle want to sign Inter Milan defender Milan Skriniar.

Previously described as a ‘monumental’ centre-back, Skriniar has been on several Premier League clubs’ radar over the years.

The 27-year-old’s contract is set to expire in the summer, with plenty of teams circling.

Chelsea have reportedly met his agents, while Tottenham were very interested in the summer.

If Howe can lead Newcastle into Europe next season, it opens up a whole new level of possible signings, and that could include Skriniar.

Newcastle want to sign Skriniar

Speaking about the Slovakian international, O’Rourke said: “If they were to go on and clinch a place in next season’s Champions League, it will only boost their chances of signing players such as Skriniar.

“He’s out of contract in the summer, so if he doesn’t agree a new deal at Inter Milan, I’m sure Newcastle would love the opportunity to try and bring him to St James’ Park.”

It’s not just O’Rourke who believes Newcastle want to sign Skriniar now.

Italian outlet CalcioMercato believes the Magpies are now front runners to sign in the summer.

This, however, relies on them qualifying for the Champions League next season.

They’re in a good spot right now, currently sitting in third place a number of regular Champions League clubs.

Staying there until the end of the season is going to be a serious challenge.

However, they haven’t lost a match since August, and the longer that runs lasts, the better chance they have.