Newcastle ‘hold talks’ with ‘next Van Dijk’ as race to sign Premier League midfielder intensifies

Newcastle United will hope to continue their impressive start to life in the Champions League when they play host to eight-time German champions Borussia Dortmund.

Eddie Howe is hoping to progress as far as possible in the competition but there are concerns around squad depth, particularly with the ongoing investigation which surrounds summer signing Sandro Tonali.

The Italian midfielder is awaiting news of investigations into alleged betting offences, for which he could face a lengthy ban.

Such an outcome could prompt Newcastle to make a move for a highly rated Premier League midfielder, while there are also reports emerging from the agent of a defender from Serie A.

With that in mind we round up all of the latest transfer headlines surrounding St James’ Park.

Newcastle hold meeting with defender over potential transfer

Newcastle United are fairly short on options in the central defensive area. Club captain Jamaal Lascelles has recently filled in for the Magpies to partner Fabian Schar in the absence of Sven Botman.

Many fans and pundits associated with the club, including ex-goalkeeper Shay Given, have claimed that centre back should be a priority position in January.

One player that was on Newcastle’s radar during the recent transfer window was Romanian defender Radu Dragusin, according to comments from his agent Florin Manea.

Dragusin left Juventus in the summer transfer window to complete a permanent move to Genoa after a successful loan spell. However, he also held talks with representatives from the North East.

Manea told TV Play via Sport Witness: "It’s not an offer from Newcastle, I’ve had meetings with both Newcastle and other teams. Genoa would only sell him for an offer higher than €30 million.”

Manea added: “I wouldn’t like it [return to Juventus], but he doesn’t know. In life you never know, even if Genoa will certainly ask for a lot of money for him. He still has a lot of room for improvement. He is aware that he’s now at 85% of his potential.”

The 21-year-old is highly rated in Italy and reportedly models his game on Virgil Van Dijk, according to Goal.com. The outlet adds that he has developed his strong reputation due to his composure on the ball and excellent positional sense, he is also a huge threat from set pieces at 6ft3 in height.

Newcastle linked with move for Premier League midfielder

Newcastle are believed to be huge admirers of Chelsea midfielder Conor Gallagher, who was heavily linked with a move away from Stamford Bridge in the summer.

The former Crystal Palace loanee has been tentatively linked with Newcastle in recent windows, according to the Chronicle. But the Magpies have often steered away due to his asking price.

However, Caught Offside reports claim that Newcastle and Tottenham will return to the table to revisit their interest in the 23-year-old, but the Blues are planning to open contract talks with the midfielder. Gallagher himself is said to be ‘open’ to the prospect of a new deal at Stamford Bridge.