Report: Newcastle really want to sign ‘phenomenal’ defender who’s not at the World Cup right now

Thu 1 December 2022 9:45, UK

Newcastle United manager Eddie Howe will know his side need to keep moving forward if they want to maintain their current levels.

Howe is currently getting the most out his squad, and has seen vast improvements from some of his players.

Newcastle currently have the best defensive record in the Premier League.

The introduction of Nick Pope in goal and Sven Botman at centre-back have made an immediate impact.

The revolution started with Kieran Trippier last January, and the right-back has been phenomenal for the past 12 months.

Howe will know that he needs to improve the overall quality of his squad to continue their charge on the top four.

Club captain Jamaal Lascelles has only started once in the league this season, and Paul Dummett has yet to play a minute.

A fourth centre-back that Howe can really trust may be needed soon, and .

that Newcastle want to sign Frankfurt defender Evan Ndicka.

The 23-year-old has less than a year left on his contract, and looks set to leave the Bundesliga shortly.

Newcastle want to sign Ndicka

Ndicka has already been linked with a number of Premier League clubs this season.

Arsenal are reportedly admirers of Ndicka, with director of football Edu personally scouting him.

Their north London rivals Tottenham are also interested, .

The ‘phenomenal’ centre-back has been ever present for Frankfurt this season, both in the Bundesliga and Champions League.

The Frenchman is an under-21 international, but wasn’t considered by Didier Deschamps for the World Cup.

The left-footed centre-back typically on the left of a back-three, and would allow Howe to change his tactics if desired.

At 23, Newcastle may want to sign Ndicka as a long-term partner to Botman.

The Dutchman is one of Europe’s most talented young defenders, and was unlucky to also miss out on a call-up to Qatar.

If Howe can offer Ndicka European football next season, he may have a very good chance of bringing him to St. James’ Park.