Newcastle United are reportedly interested in signing Liverpool defender Jarell Quansah this summer.
According to the Times, the Magpies are planning to submit an offer worth £30 million to the Reds for the English defender, who has four years left in his contract.
Having won the EFL Cup Championship, The Toon are looking to strengthen their squad in the upcoming transfer window to compete on all fronts next season.
Defensive reinforcements are a priority to provide back-up for Dan Burn and Fabian Schar, with Sven Botman being injury-prone.
Quansah has emerged as a top target and the Magpies believe they can persuade him to St.James Park with regular game time.
Building on his breakout campaign last season, the 22-year-old has continued his development with the Reds this term, making 22 appearances in all competitions.
Despite not being a regular, Quansah has proved to be a key player in Liverpool’s defence.
His impressive performances also saw him receive his maiden senior team call-up from Englan head coach Thomas Tuchel this month.
The Reds will also try to keep hold of Quansah, with the futures of several defenders hanging in the balance.
Virgil van Dijk’s contract expires this summer and there hasn’t been any update over his extension.
Meanwhile, Trent-Alexander Arnold has reportedly reached an agreement to join Real Madrid on a free transfer when his contract expires at the end of the season.
In addition to Quansah, Newcastle are tracking Bournemouth’s Dean Huijsen.
Is Quansah a good option for Newcastle?
Quansah has showcased his quality consistently whenever summoned up by Arne Slot, thus becoming a pivotal member of the backline.
A centre-back by trade, the Reds youngster has also displayed his versatility by playing as a right-back on several occasions this season.
He is excellent with the ball at his feet, displaying exquisite passing range and progressing abilities.
Defensively he is no slouch as he uses his physicality and anticipation skills to make timely tackles and interceptions.
Quansah is a perfect fit for Magpies manager Eddie Howe, who prefers his defenders to be well-rounded.
Burn and Schar are approaching their twilight years and it is imperative for Newcastle to solidify the defence to sustain their success in a high-octane league like Premier League.
Given his young age and talent, the Toon can’t find a better option than Quansah to fortify their backline.
Huijsen is also a world-class talent but signing him will not be easy as Real Madrid are keen on his services.