Report: Newcastle set sights on £37k-a-week forward who's a 'joy to watch', out of contract in summer

By Giuseppe Labellarte

Newcastle United have reportedly set their sights on Derby captain Tom Lawrence.

The Magpies are currently looking to bolster their ranks in pursuit of Premier League safety.

So far, Newcastle have signed two players in Kieran Trippier and Chris Wood.

There’s certainly scope for the Magpies to bring more, however.

Now, TEAMtalk has claimed that Newcastle are one of several clubs eyeing Lawrence.

The 28-year-old club captain has had a good campaign so far, with seven goals and three assists to his name already.

Lawrence – Derby’s highest earner on £37,000-a-week – is out of contract at the end of the season.

Admittedly, Rams boss Wayne Rooney has said that his captain “will be here until the end of the season”.

But Lawrence himself said “it would have to be for the benefit of the club, and for me” to leave in January.

With Derby currently having financial problems, a significant offer from Newcastle could perhaps convince them to cash in.

Lawrence a good shout for Newcastle – TBR View

Admittedly, a Championship player might not be the kind of marquee signing some Newcastle fans expected.

However, Lawrence has shown he’s a cut above in the second tier, shining despite his team’s troubles.

Lawrence has earned plenty of praise, with former Blackburn boss Gary Bowyer lauding the then-Rovers loanee in 2015.

“He’s a wonderful player, a joy to watch,” Eurosport quoted him as saying.

“He’s one of these players that when he picks the ball up, half-turns and starts running, you get off the edge of your seat because you know something’s going to happen.”

A captain for a team currently in dire straits, Lawrence has also shown the kind of leadership that Newcastle could do with right now.

He’s a good shout for Newcastle – transfer-wise, he probably wouldn’t cost too much, as he’s out of contract soon.

The Magpies could easily offer him much more than his current salary – even doubling it wouldn’t make a dent for them.

Lawrence is the kind of signing that would work for Newcastle if they stay up or if they go down.

If he helps keeps the Magpies up, then that’s a major feat in itself. If they go down, his experience and expertise in the second tier will prove indispensable.