Newcastle United news: Defensive target identified, Townsend in demand

The defender spent last season on loan at Championship club Hull City.

And Hayden is on Newcastle's transfer radar as Rafa Benitez assesses his defensive options for the new season.

United manager Benitez is also keen to keep his key men at the club.

A clutch of clubs, including Manchester City and Liverpool, have been linked with moves for Andros Townsend, who has a release clause in his contract.

Meanwhile, former Newcastle winger Jonas Gutierrez has taken to Twitter.

Gutierrez has tweeted about club owner Mike Ashley and United's prospects in the Championship under Benitez.