Newcastle Utd news: Eddie Howe targeting centre-back Jan Paul van Hecke amid Champions League return
Newcastle United are on the edge of a Champions League return next season, with the Magpies third in the Premier League table.
The Toon previously qualified for the competition last season, crashing out in the group stages but notably beating Paris Saint-Germain 4-1 at St. James’ Park.
Eddie Howe is ready to heavily reinforce his squad this summer with another European expedition on the horizon.
Newcastle United eye Jan Paul van Hecke
As reported by Graeme Bailey, Newcastle are monitoring Jan Paul van Hecke, who has been a standout performer for Brighton & Hove Albion this season.
The Dutchman is the epitome of a modern-day centre-half.
Excellent with the ball at his feet, van Hecke has an excellent 88.2% pass accuracy in the Premier League this campaign, completing 61.8 successful passes per 90.
The 24-year-old would be an excellent addition to transform the Magpies’ ageing backline, which has an average age of 28.9
Bundesliga side Bayer Leverkusen are also understood to be keen on van Hecke if he does leave the Amex Stadium this summer.
Newcastle have also looked at AC Milan’s Malick Thiaw and Sporting’s Ousmane Diomande as possible alternatives.
Newcastle United working on a deal for Min-Jae Kim
The Magpies are also busy working on a deal for Bayern Munich defender Min-Jae Kim, according to Football Insider.
As revealed by Florian Plettenberg, the South Korean international is ‘not considered untouchable’ at the Allianz Arena and could leave Bavaria this summer if a suitable offer comes in.
The 28-year-old would provide Newcastle with a wealth of Champions League experience, and only cost roughly £40million.
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